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Preliminary testing of a Little Egret found in Tuen Mun has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (November 21), adding that further confirmatory tests are being conducted.
Following a referral from the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), the AFCD collected the sick wild bird in Tuen Mun Park on November 18. The bird subsequently died the next day.
The spokesman said there were no chicken farms within 3 kilometres of where the bird was found.
"In view of this suspected case, we have phoned poultry farmers reminding them to take precautionary and biosecutiry measures 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.
The spokesman said that the department would conduct frequent inspections of poultry farms and the wholesale market to ensure that proper precautions against avian influenza had been implemented. The department would also continue to conduct close monitoring and surveillance of wild birds.
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) 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 LCSD has reminded all of its park staff to remain vigilant and step up precautionary measures including regular cleaning and disinfection.
The Department of Health will enhance health education and distribute health advice leaflets.
AFCD, FEHD, the Customs and Excise Department, the Police will strive to deter illegal import of poultry and birds to Hong Kong to prevent an increase in the risk of avian influenza outbreak brought by poultry and birds that had not gone through inspection and quarantine.
The spokesman said the threat of avian influenza remained. The relevant departments will remain vigilant and continue to take preventive and control measures against 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 their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating.
This is the first wild bird suspected to be infected by avian influenza virus at the onset of this winter season.
Ends/Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Issued at HKT 20:38
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