***********************************************************
Temperature screening of people arriving in Hong Kong at Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau will be re-activated tomorrow (November 18) as a precautionary measure to reduce the spread of avian influenza following reports of human cases of avian flu H5N1 in Hunan and Anhui.
The Assistant Director of Health, Dr Cindy Lai, said that 11 infra-red thermo-imaging machines were installed at Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau immigration control points and temperature checking of in-bound passengers would be started from tomorrow. This is an important public health measure to protect the health of passengers and the community.
Members of the Auxiliary Medical Service will be responsible for temperature screening of travellers. Travellers found to have high body temperature by infra-red machines will have their temperature re-checked. Those confirmed to have fever will be further assessed for symptoms of influenza and, if required, they will be referred to hospitals for further investigations.
Temperature screening will also be implemented at other immigration control points including Man Kam To, Sha Tau Kok, Hung Hom Train Station, China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui and Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan at later stages.
Travellers are reminded to observe good personal hygiene at all times. When travelling outside Hong Kong, avoid touching live birds, including poultry. Those returning from areas affected by avian flu should consult doctors promptly if they have symptoms of influenza after the trip. They should let the doctors know their travel history and wear a mask to prevent spreading the disease.
Further information can be accessed at the website of the Centre for Health Protection at http://www.chp.gov.hk/view_content.asp?lang=en&info_id=590.
Ends/Thursday, November 17, 2005
Issued at HKT 17:42
NNNN
