In the cartoon on Page A8 of The Gleaner of Friday, July 17, the drawing of a pig is shown with the inscription 'H1N1 virus'.

The Veterinary Services Division would like to state that up to now, there have been no reports of infection of swine in Jamaica with the H1N1 virus and there has been no evidence so far of the H1N1 virus being transmitted from pigs to humans or vice versa in Jamaica.

This division would also like to state that in relation to animal health, Jamaica currently is free from all devastating animal diseases and as such boasts a very favourable animal-health status.

As such, meat derived from animals which have undergone relevant inspection and certification by the Ministry of Health and Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and is properly handled and prepared is safe to consume.

I am, etc.,

OSBIL O. WATSON (Dr)

Ministry of Agriculture

and Fisheries

Veterinary Services Division

Hope Gardens

Kingston 6