Hilmi: H5N1 chicken safe for consumption

KUALA LUMPUR: The public should not worry about consuming chicken-based foods in the country because it is safe to eat chicken despite the spread of the bird flu (H5N1).
Deputy Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Hilmi Yahaya (pix) said chicken and chicken products are safe for consumption if they are cooked properly at a temperature of more than 70 Celsius.
He said the health monitoring conducted by the ministry found that so far, there has been no reports of H5N1 infection in humans, including in Kelantan.
"In Malaysia, we do not eat raw chicken, we cook. We ensure that the chicken is cooked properly so of course it is safe for consumption," he told reporters after launching a dental health joint programme between the ministry with religious bodies here today.
Dr Hilmi said the Health Ministry would continue monitoring the situation at all levels and districts.
On Wednesday, Kelantan declared the H5N1 as a state disaster after it spread to two more districts, namely Bachok and Pasir Puteh, after Kota Bharu and Pasir Mas. — Bernama