***********************************
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department will reopen to the public the aviaries at three major parks from tomorrow (March 18) as the avian influenza outbreak situation in the region has started to ease off.
The avaries are located at Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, Kowloon Park and Yuen Long Park.
The department will reopen the aviaries in Hong Kong Park to the public from April 9 after completion of large-scale maintenance works.
As a precautionary measure against the possible spread of avian influenza, the four aviaries were closed on January 31 this year.
A department spokesman said: "During the closure period, our Senior Veterinary Officer and staff have been keeping a close watch over the health of the birds in the aviaries. All birds are in a satisfactory health condition and we will remain vigilant.
"We will keep cleaning the aviaries three times a day to maintain a high level of hygiene."
The spokesman reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene and not to touch birds or bird droppings when visiting the aviaries or the parks as a health precautionary measure.
"Signs have been put up at the venues to warn visitors not to touch the birds or bird droppings."
"They should also refrain from feeding birds at the parks and anyone found doing so may be prosecuted," he added.
Ends/Wednesday, March 17, 2004
NNNN
