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A Grey Heron found in Lok Ma Chau was tested positive for H5N1 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (December 13).
The Grey Heron was found sick and collected on December 5 at the wetland compensation area of MTR Lok Ma Chau Spurline. The bird was kept in cage and subsequently died the next day. Tests were conducted over the past few days and the results available today confirmed that the bird was infected with H5N1 avian influenza.
"As a precautionary measure, the Mai Po Nature Reserve will be temporarily closed to visitors for 21 days starting tomorrow (December 14). We will monitor the situation closely and review the closure period as necessary," the spokesman said.
AFCD has maintained a stringent monitoring regime on wild birds in the Mai Po Nature Reserve and collected faecal samples for H5 testing since the winter of 2002.
The spokesman said there were no chicken farms within 3 kilometres of where the bird was found.
"In view of this confirmed 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."
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 continue its wild bird monitoring and surveillance.
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will continue to be vigilant over imported live poultry as well as live poultry stalls. It will also remind stall operators to maintain good hygiene.
The Department of Health will keep up with its health education and distribute health advice leaflets.
AFCD, FEHD, the Customs and Excise Department and the Police will strive to deter the illegal import of poultry and birds into 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.
Grey Heron is a frequent winter visitor, but rarely visits Hong Kong in the summer. It is not a resident species in Hong Kong.
Ends/Thursday, December 13, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:35
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