********************************************
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) received confirmation today (February 26) from the Ministry of Health (MoH) that samples taken from the 44-year-old woman who was suspected to have been infected with the avian flu virus and died in Shanwei yesterday had tested positive for the H5N1 avian flu virus.
The woman developed fever and pneumonia on February 16 and passed away on February 25.
The spokesman said the CHP would maintain close liaison with the Department of Health of Guangdong Province and the MoH to follow up the situation.
He 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 contact has been made, people 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;
* Avoid crowded places;
* 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 upon return to Hong Kong, you should consult a doctor promptly and reveal your travel history.
For further information on avian influenza, please visit the CHP website: www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:32
NNNN
