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In the light of recent human cases of H5 avian influenza in the Mainland, the Government has stepped up its monitoring and surveillance efforts to guard against avian influenza in Hong Kong.
A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) said that as an additional measure, DH had activated a four-week Enhanced Pneumonia Surveillance Programme (EPS) under which H5 test would be conducted by all public and private hospitals for people who developed pneumonia with unknown etiology within seven days after visiting places where human case of avian flu was reported in the past six months.
"We will also ask all private hospitals to take corresponding measures to detect any suspected case of avian flu," he said.
The spokesman added that DH would maintain temperature screening for in-bound travelers at all immigration control points.
"Health information leaflets will be distributed and health messages displayed at all immigration control points," he said.
DH has informed the Hong Kong Travel Industry Council about the present situation and provided health advice to travel agencies accordingly, the spokesman said.
The CHP is maintaining close liaison with the Guangdong health authorities and China Ministry of Health to follow up on the recent confirmed and suspected human cases of avian flu in the Mainland.
Meanwhile, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department will also step up inspection and monitoring of the hygiene conditions in all local poultry farms, wholesale and retail markets.
The Customs and Excise Department will strengthen its efforts to crack down on smuggling activities on birds and poultry at boundary control points.
The spokesman reminded members of the public to remain vigilant against avian influenza infection and to observe the following measures:
* Avoid direct contact with poultry and birds or their droppings; if contacts have been made, they should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water;
* Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating;
* Wash hands frequently;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, hold the spit with tissue and put it into covered dustbins;
* Wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or need to take care of patients with fever;
* When you have fever and influenza-like illnesses during a trip or when coming back to Hong Kong, you should consult doctors promptly and reveal your travel history.
Ends/Monday, February 25, 2008
Issued at HKT 19:06
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