"There have been no bird-flu infections in these provinces, or in any other part of the country," said Dr Jaral Trinvuthipong, an assistant to caretaker Agriculture Minister Sudarat Keyuraphan, during a seminar yesterday organised by the Livestock Development Department (LDD).

Jaral attributed the success in tackling bird flu to the authorities' ability to identify bird-flu infections quickly and take immediate measures to curb an outbreak.

He said the government hoped that the country would be completely free of bird flu by 2008.

"By next year, bird-flu infections should be restricted to less than 10 locations," he said.

He said controls imposed on domestic poultry, fighting cocks and migratory birds would help achieve these goals.

LDD director-general Yukol Limlamtong said efforts by livestock officials and other volunteers had contributed to the swift response to bird-flu infections this year.

"We will not lower our guard. On the contrary, we will continue with our preventive measures, especially creating better understanding of bird flu among the people because this will enhance cooperation in the effort to prevent the disease," he said.