The Ministry of Agriculture said on Thursday that it had taken steps to prevent rodent infestations in the wake of last week's Sichuan earthquake, which could damage crops and spread diseases.

It said 5.42 million yuan (about US$774,300) in funding, along with rat poison, pesticides and sprayers, had been delivered to quake-hit areas, which have set up mice control plans.

It urged local authorities to set up monitoring networks, disseminate information and mobilize residents to take part in controlling rodents.

The ministry said it would also organize expert teams to lead the work in Sichuan Province, the center of the 8.0-magnitude earthquake on May 12.

(Xinhua News Agency May 23, 2008)