Chinese scientists have developed and tested a new type of vaccine to guard against the H5N1 bird flu virus, according to reports on Saturday. 

The vaccine, developed jointly by the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Science and Technology, will keep chickens, ducks and geese immune for over 10 months after being injected, four months longer than existing immunizations.

The Ministry of Agriculture has instructed local authorities to ensure wide use of the vaccine.

Ducks and geese are believed to be the major hosts of the fatal avian influenza.

(CRI.com February 6, 2005)