We must be very alert that the rumors and false news are the most dangerous thing we are facing nowadays, especially with such a worried and tense Egyptian street due to the bird flu virus crisis and its anticipated serious social and economic repercussions.

I just say that because of yesterday's rumor (of Nile water contamination), which, though bare of any truth, spread like wild fire. Therefore, we have to warn all the citizens against the underlying danger of such rumors.

In fact, it is high time to admit frankly that the crisis we are facing entails everyone to act instead of blaming everything on the government. Each and every one of us must do something, even before the government, as the crisis is affecting the whole society.

In this context, lack of political parties, non-governmental and civil society organizations' tangible and effective presence in Egyptian cities, villages and hamlets is intolerable. If they are not there in such a critical and emergency situation, when, then, will they be?

Bird flu catastrophe is not an Egyptian concern, but a world one and eliminating this disease is not impossible. Optimistically enough, all Egyptian officials are sparing no effort in dealing with the crisis in a bid to contain and eliminate it.

To cite an example of success, Thailand, which was in the heart of this catastrophe, has succeeded in dealing with it through seriousness, discipline and firm determination to implement all needed preventive and health measures to confront the disease. Now, Thailand is free of bird flu and became miles away from its danger.

To follow the Thai example, we must abide by the national plan for confronting bird flu, which complies fully with the directives and procedures set by the World Health Organization for all afflicted countries.

So, we should all realize the importance and necessity of all citizens' cooperation in putting this plan into effect. This is the responsibility of the whole society and each and every citizen and family has a role to play for Egypt to overcome this crisis.

Mohamed Barakat
Al Akhbar