CASTRIES, St. Lucia (CMC):

Health officials here will this week test the country's readiness to handle an outbreak of the avian influenza (bird flu) virus which they believe could be a threat to Caribbean countries.

Health authorities will join their colleagues in agriculture in hosting a joint symposium and simulation exercise on Wednesday to test their readiness to deal with any possible outbreak of the flu.

Chief Veterinarian Dr. George Joseph said the intention is not to give the impression that the disease is present in the country or its arrival here is imminent.