As China intensifies its campaign against avian influenza, Dr Shigeru Omi, the World Health Organization's Regional Director for the Western Pacific, is visiting the country this week to reiterate WHO's support for the Government in this regard.

During his visit, scheduled from December 19-24, Dr Omi will meet with senior government officials to discuss public health measures that are being taken to counter the challenges posed by highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza.

Other relevant issues related to the avian influenza situation in China and the region will also be on the agenda.

Dr Omi's visit includes a trip to Hunan Province, which in November recorded China's first H5N1 human case.