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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 (December 6), adding that further confirmatory tests are being conducted.
The carcass of the little egret was found and collected on December 3 at Tuen Mun Park.
Following two consecutive confirmed/suspected H5 avian influenza cases found in the same area within two weeks, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will conduct a thorough cleansing operation in Tuen Mun Park tomorrow. The department has reminded all of its park staff to remain vigilant and step up precautionary measures including regular cleansing and disinfection in all parks.
The spokesman said there were no chicken farms within 3 kilometres of where the bird was found.
"In view of this suspected case, the AFCD will phone poultry farmers reminding them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. Letters will be issued to the farmers, pet bird shop owners, licence holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons reminding them that proper precautions must be taken,¡¨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 strengthen wild bird monitoring and surveillance.
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will enhance vigilance over imported live poultry as well as live poultry stalls. It will also remind stall operators to maintain good personal hygiene.
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 imported 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.
Ends/Thursday, December 6, 2007
Issued at HKT 21:52
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