A round-up of other world news in brief
H1N1 virus is still stable, says WHO
MOSCOW – The World Health Organization said yesterday that the H1N1 virus was stable and there was no sign of it mixing with avian flu or other influenza viruses.
“The virus is still very stable,” WHO director general Margaret Chan told reporters at a news briefing in Moscow when asked if there were any signs of the virus mixing with other strains such as avian flu.
“But as we all know the influenza virus is highly unpredictable and has great potential for mutation,” she said. – (Reuters)
Iraqis demand better protection
BAGHDAD – Hundreds of angry Iraqis gathered yesterday around the wreckage of a market bombing in Baghdad where 78 people died, demanding better protection from the government after US troops pull back to bases.
A string of blasts has cast doubt on Iraqi forces’ ability to keep the lid on a stubborn insurgency as US combat troops withdraw by June 30th. More explosions yesterday killed seven people. – (Reuters)
Flood warnings as 10 Czechs die
NOVY JICIN, Czech Republic – At least 10 people died in flooding in the eastern Czech Republic, and rising river levels prompted flood warnings across central Europe following heavy rains.
The 10 Czechs died near the country’s border with Poland and Slovakia, with most of the damage near the town of Novy Jicin. Officials said at least six people were drowned and four died when medical teams were unable to reach them. – (Reuters)
BBC executives claim £350,000
LONDON – BBC executives claimed more than £350,000 (€410,000) in expenses in the last five years, it was revealed yesterday.
The claims included more than £2,000 to fly director general Mark Thompson’s family home from holiday in the wake of the Andrew Sachs row. The salaries of the BBC’s 50 top-earning managers were also disclosed — and showed 27 earn more than the prime minister’s £195,000 salary.
Among the £363,085.29 worth of claims filed between 2004 and 2009 were a £100 bottle of bubbly for Bruce Forsyth’s 80th birthday, and a £1,000 dinner to celebrate Sir Terry Wogan’s knighthood and a £400 cake. – (PA)