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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 22) urged members of the public not to have close contact with wild birds and to maintain a high standard of personal and environmental hygiene.
The appeal was made in view of the increase in number and variety of local wild birds found to be carrying H5N1 virus in various districts of Hong Kong in recent weeks, a CHP spokesman said.
"Members of the public should stay away from dead birds and avoid contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings. They should immediately clean their hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with them," he said.
Guidelines on bird management are available on the AFCD website at www.afcd.gov.hk, including the following:
* Birds should be kept indoors in cages at all times to avoid any direct contact with outside birds.
* When taking pet birds out of the premises where they are kept, cover the bird cage properly with a piece of cloth.
* When touching the birds or handling their droppings, one should wear waterproof gloves, mask and work clothes (such as task-specific apron). Wash face and hands completely before and after such contact.
Given the detection of H5N1 virus in local wild birds and that Hong Kong has entered the usual peak season for influenza, the spokesman reiterated that members of the public should adopt the following measures to reduce the risk of being infected:
* Step up hygienic practices like washing hands and keeping the environment clean and maintain good ventilation.
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing. Dispose sputum or secretions wrapped in tissue paper into rubbish bins with lids and wash hands as soon as possible.
* Avoid crowded or poorly-ventilated places.
* Wear a mask if they develop flu-like symptoms, when caring for the sick, and when visiting hospitals and clinics.
* Watch out for the latest situation of the influenza pandemic and further announcements from the government.
* Pay attention to and comply with guidelines issued by the government with respect to prevention of avian flu, traveling and port health control.
"Frequent and proper handwashing is of paramount importance," the spokesman said.
Members of the public can also obtain information on influenza or avian flu from the CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) and the Central Health Education Unit Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Issued at HKT 19:15
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