The government will step up efforts to deal with potential human bird flu infections and allocate funds for research into mad cow disease.

The Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs said Friday the decision was reached in a meeting of the national health promotion committee.

As part of its general health improvement plan, the government aims to stockpile enough Tamiflu antiviral drugs to treat at least two-point-four million people in case the bird flu spreads to humans.

About 658 billion won, or about 628 million dollars, will be allocated this year to address general public concerns and critical issues like avian influenza and mad cow disease.

In addition, the government will support research into the cause of mad cow disease.

State funds will also be used to enhance warning systems for smoking and increase nutritional support for babies and young children in low-income households.