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The Education and Manpower Bureau today (February 9) issued the Handbook on Prevention of Avian Influenza in Schools, reminding them to remain vigilant and step up precautionary measures to prevent the spread of avian influenza.
The Secretary for Education and Manpower, Professor Arthur K C Li, said, "Students' health and safety is of paramount importance to all of us. Avian influenza could be effectively prevented should all schools take the necessary precautionary actions according to the guidelines."
"As for the suspected case of avian influenza involving a dead bird found at Diocesan Boys' School, the school management has thoroughly cleansed the premises with diluted bleach. Parents can rest assured."
"We have also reminded the school to inform the Department of Health and the Education and Manpower Bureau for follow-up actions should students or school staff have fever or take sick leave in the next two weeks."
Last year, the Bureau has already issued a circular memorandum to call on schools to take precautionary measures against avian influenza. The Handbook published today went on to provide schools with a series of guidelines and information on contingency measures.
The school authorities, staff members and students should pay heed to the following:
* Schools must not keep poultry in the school premises and should refrain from keeping live birds where possible;
* Establish barriers to prevent children from touching live birds;
* Avoid organising activities that may expose children to live birds;
* Do not touch live birds, poultry and their excreta (Wash hands with soap and water immediately after contact with live birds or surfaces contaminated by bird droppings). Schools should call the Government hotline at 1823 for advice on handling sick, wounded or dead birds found on school premises. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department will collect the birds for laboratory examination, where necessary.
* Cover nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and wash hands with soap and water afterwards;
* Keep hands clean and wash hands properly, use liquid soap for hand washing and disposal towel for drying hands, do not share towels;
* Cleanse used toys and furniture properly;
* Maintain good ventilation;
* Keep sufficient stock of face masks in the school for staff/students who may need one; and
* If any students/staff develop respiratory symptoms, they should consult their doctor promptly, wear a surgical mask, and take rest at home and refrain from going to school as advised by their doctor.
Schools should also visit the web site of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (http://www.chp.gov.hk) for more information on the prevention of avian influenza.
Ends/Thursday, February 9, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:58
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