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Preliminary testing of a White-backed Munia found dead in Mong Kok has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (January 19), adding that further confirmatory tests are being conducted.
The carcass was collected by AFCD staff at 101 – 109 Boundary Street following a public referral on January 16.
AFCD staff inspected stalls in the Bird Garden in Mong Kok today and found nothing abnormal among the pet birds there for sale.
"We will continue to maintain close surveillance of pet bird stalls in the Garden," the spokesman said.
"Samples from pet bird stalls are regularly collected for testing of avian influenza viruses. Of the 2,400 samples that were tested last year, none was positive for avian influenza."
Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.
Ends/Friday, January 19, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:26
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