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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 2) reported preliminary negative results for H5N1 in a 42-year-old man, his 78-year-old mother and another relative who had potential exposure to a chicken found with influenza H5N1 virus in Sha Tau Kok.
Nasopharyngeal aspirates (swabs taken from the nose) and throat swabs taken from these persons showed negative results for H5 avian influenza using RT-PCR (reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) by the Public Health Laboratory Centre.
The three people were admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital yesterday for medical observation in isolation wards.
As a precautionary measure, the CHP has put them under close medical surveillance.
"The CHP will closely monitor the development and remain on high alert," a CHP spokesman said.
Ends/Thursday, February 2, 2006
Issued at HKT 14:51
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