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Our Bureau

New Delhi , Nov 30

THE global spread of avian influenza or bird flu is a cause for concern not just among healthcare providers but industry as well. According to a report prepared by Hill & Associates, a multinational risk management consultancy firm, sectors such as business process outsourcing, information technology, banks and financial institutions, and manufacturing — all heavily dependent on people — would be the hardest hit if the avian flu were to turn into a pandemic.

"This should especially be worrisome for India, which is riding the wave of economic resurgence on the strength of a vibrant BPO and knowledge economy base," it said. The UN had recently estimated that a genetically mutated strain of the avian influenza transmissible through humans could result in around 150 million deaths and a global economic loss of $800 billion over a year. It is estimated that bird flu pandemic will have far more serious consequences than SARS, which caused an economic loss of $60 billion in Asia in 2003.

Said Mr Ashish Sonal, Country Manager, Hill & Associates (India), "Sound contingency planning, communication with people at all levels, and monitoring of trigger points, in tune with WHO guidelines and local measures taken by governments — will be key to effective crisis management by companies."

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