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The outdoor section of the Hong Kong Wetland Park (HKWP) and the Aviary Pagoda of Yuen Long Park, which were temporarily closed to the public for 21 days in mid-February following the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in dead birds found in the vicinity, will be reopened from tomorrow (March 7).
The two venues were closed according to guidelines as part of the precautionary measures against avian influenza to minimise human contact with wild birds and their droppings.
According to the guidelines, if three or more live or dead birds confirmed with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus infection are found within a period of 10 days within a 3-kilometre radius of the Mai Po Nature Reserve (MPNR), the HKWP and other walk-in aviaries, the MPNR, the outdoor section of the HKWP and other walk-in aviaries will be closed for 21 days.
"As there has not been any new case of birds infected with the H5 virus found near the venues in the past 21 days, the venues will be reopened to the public," a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (March 6).
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department, which manages the Aviary Pagoda in Yuen Long Park and other aviaries in Hong Kong Park, the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens and Kowloon Park, also confirmed that all birds kept in the aviaries were in a satisfactory health condition.
But the spokesman reminded people to continue to be alert and take proper precautions against avian influenza.
"People should observe good personal hygiene and avoid contact with wild birds and their droppings. They should also wash their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them," he said.
"We will remain vigilant and continue surveillance of wild birds," the spokesman said.
Ends/Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:01
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