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Specimens collected from man prove H5 negative
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    A spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (June 16) said that laboratory tests on the specimens collected from a 54-year-old man who had presented with fever and cough showed a negative result for H5, the virus that could cause human avian influenza.

    The spokesman said the patient attended Caritas Medical Centre earlier this morning with influenza symptoms, and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for treatment.

    He was a contract staff member of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department responsible for cleaning work in Po On Road Market, Sham Shui Po, earlier.

    The spokesman reminded people to remain vigilant against avian influenza infection and to observe the following measures:

ĦE Avoid direct contact with poultry and birds or their droppings; if contact is made, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water;
ĦE Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating;
ĦE Wash hands frequently;
ĦE Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, hold the spit with tissue and put it into a covered dustbin;
ĦE Avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever;
ĦE Wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or need to take care of patients with fever;
ĦE When you have fever and influenza-like illnesses during a trip or when coming back to Hong Kong, consult doctors promptly and reveal your travel history.

    For further information on avian influenza, please visit the CHP website: www.chp.gov.hk.

Ends/Monday, June 16, 2008
Issued at HKT 17:22

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