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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health received notification today (March 3) from the Health Department of Guangdong Province and Ministry of Health concerning a suspected human case of avian influenza H5N1 in Guangdong Province.
A CHP spokesman said the patient was a 32-year-old man who lived in Guangzhou. He developed fever and pneumonia on February 22 and died on March 2.
The CHP is maintaining close liaison with the Ministry of Health and the Health Department of Guangdong Province to obtain more information on the case.
"Even though Hong Kong has been free from human avian influenza case since early 2003, members of the public are reminded to remain vigilant and observe good personal hygiene," the spokesman said.
Although there is no case in Hong Kong, we are mindful of the large volume of population flow between Guangdong and Hong Kong.
For the time being, DH's Port Health Office remains vigilant and maintains temperature screening for inbound travellers at all immigration control points. Health education for travellers will be enhanced at all immigration control points through distribution of leaflets and displaying of health messages.
The following measures would be stepped up if this case is confirmed:
· Will inform the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong about the case and update health advice to the organization immediately,
· DH will also update all doctors of the current situation and remind them to report suspected avian influenza cases
The spokesman reminded members of the public to remain vigilant against avian influenza infection and to observe the following measures:
· Avoid direct contact with poultry and birds or their droppings; if contacts have been made, they should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water;
· Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating;
· Wash hands frequently;
· Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, hold the spit with tissue and put it into covered dustbins;
· Avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever;
· Use a mask when one has respiratory symptoms or needs to take care of patients with fever;
· When one develops fever and influenza-like illnesses during a trip or when coming back to Hong Kong, one should consult doctors promptly and tell his travel history.
For further information on avian influenza, please visit the CHP website: http://www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Friday, March 3, 2006
Issued at HKT 23:30
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