The World Health Organization (WHO) reports Saturday that tests conducted by the World Organization for Animal Health have confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in samples taken from domestic birds in Turkey.

In Romania, investigations of recent poultry deaths have, to date, identified the H5 subtype of avian influenza virus. Further testing is under way to determine the strain and whether the virus is highly pathogenic

The Director of the World Health Organization in the South Pacific says that that the world might be able to avoid an Avian influenza pandemic. While recognizing that the situation was perilous, Dr. Shigeru Omi says a surge of help from the international community had brought a new impetus to the battle against the disease.

"I believe that the momentum that is now building up will give us a chance to change the course of history and head off a pandemic caused by the H5N1 virus," says Dr. Omi."Of course, I have no illusions about the danger the world is in, because we are dealing with a virus that is unpredictable, firmly entrenched and continuing to spread

The Argentinean health Ministry announces it plans to suspend imports of all Brazilian meat. Chile also bans meat from the midwestern farming state of Mato Grosso do Sul, where the outbreak was detected.

The 25 nations of the European Union have also suspended Brazilian meat imports, including South Africa, Russia, and Israel

A controversial Swiss clinic, which has helped 453 people die over seven years, has plans to open an office in Britain. According to British newspaper, The Independent, the company Dignitas has begun discussions about setting up a British branch.

The move comes as Britain's most senior church leaders are mounting a concerted campaign to stop politicians from legalizing assisted suicide. Up to 70 peers and Anglican bishops are set to speak in a major debate in the House of Lords tomorrow

A controversial Swiss clinic, which has helped 453 people die over seven years, has plans to open an office in Britain. According to British newspaper, The Independent, the company Dignitas has begun discussions about setting up a British branch.

The move comes as Britain's most senior church leaders are mounting a concerted campaign to stop politicians from legalizing assisted suicide. Up to 70 peers and Anglican bishops are set to speak in a major debate in the House of Lords tomorrow