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Preliminary testing of a dead bird found in Causeway Bay has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (January 4).
Further confirmatory tests are still being conducted.
The carcass of the Scaly-breasted Munia was collected by department staff in Leighton Road on December 31 after being alerted by a member of the public.
The spokesman said that in addition to regular inspections of local poultry farms and pet bird shops, the department would conduct a fresh round of visits to ensure precautionary measures against bird flu were in place.
"In view of this suspected case, we have phoned poultry farmers reminding them to maintain precautions against avian influenza. Letters have also been issued to the farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken,กจ he said.
"We will visit villages again to ensure that no poultry is being kept illegally.กจ
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will continue to maintain vigilance over imported live poultry as well as live poultry stalls. It will also remind stall operators to maintain good personal hygiene.
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is following up with the three AFCD staff members and the member of the public who reported the case and will put them under medical surveillance.
CHP will send letters to doctors to inform them of the situation, reminding them to report suspected human avian influenza cases.
People should not have any contact with wild birds and live poultry or touch their carcasses. They must clean their hands thoroughly after any contact and should seek medical consultation promptly if feeling unwell.
The aviaries in Hong Kong Park, Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens and Kowloon Park under the management of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) have been temporarily closed as a standard precautionary measure. All the birds kept in the aviaries are in healthy condition and the department's Senior Veterinary Office will continue to keep a close watch on them. Precautionary measures and cleansing operations have been stepped up in all LCSD venues where birds congregate and park-goers are reminded not to feed birds.
Owners of pet birds should not kiss their birds and the birds should not be kept in eating areas or have access to food prepared for people.
People should also wash their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with their pet birds.
Ends/Thursday, January 4, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:39
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