Exercise "Moonstone" tests government response to Zika Virus Infection (with photos/video)
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The DH conducts exercises regularly to test the effectiveness of the Government's preparedness and response plans and procedures for different communicable diseases. Exercise "Moonstone" was aimed at assessing the interoperability of government departments and agencies in response to the detection of a source of Zika Virus Infection, as well as enhancing the alertness and readiness of relevant stakeholders in guarding Hong Kong against Zika Virus Infection and the threat of the spread of communicable disease.
About 50 participants from relevant government departments and organisations took part in the exercise. The exercise consisted of two parts. The first part was a table-top exercise conducted on May 4, in which a simulated scenario of a confirmed case of Zika Virus Infection in Hong Kong occurred and relevant departments and organisations discussed and co-ordinated the response measures required.
The second part, conducted today, was a ground movement exercise. Under the exercise simulation, a worker at the Container Terminal tested positive for Zika virus and initial epidemiological investigation revealed that a site at the Container Terminal was a possible source of infection. The DH responded immediately and co-ordinated with relevant departments and agencies to formulate and implement corresponding measures at the Container Terminal. In addition to conducting epidemiological investigation by its Public Health Team, the DH also co-ordinated with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department to carry out site assessment, field investigation and mosquito prevention and control measures, and instructed the operator of the Container Terminal to implement mosquito prevention measures.
"Zika Virus Infection is a mosquito-borne disease caused by Zika virus, which is mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito and could also be transmitted by sexual contact. Other modes of transmission such as blood transfusion and perinatal transmission are also possible. The Government has been vigilant in guarding Hong Kong against Zika Virus Infection. In line with recommendations of the World Health Organization, our public health actions including vector control, enhanced disease surveillance, travel health advice and public education, enhanced port health measures, a preparedness plan and risk communication are all in place," a spokesman for the DH said.
"The exercise provided a valuable opportunity for relevant government departments and organisations to test and evaluate the response measures as well as identify areas for improvement and enhancement. We will continue to conduct interdepartmental exercises with government departments, organisations and stakeholders concerned in close partnership, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong's overall preparedness in the control and prevention of communicable diseases," the spokesman added.
Ends/Friday, May 12, 2017
Issued at HKT 21:03
Issued at HKT 21:03
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