Three birds tested for H5 virus
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    Preliminary testing of three dead birds collected on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon has indicated suspected cases of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (February 21), adding that further confirmatory tests are being conducted.

     One of them was a dead Large-billed Crow removed by AFCD staff from Magnolia Road, Yau Yat Chuen on February 18 upon a public referral.

     The two other cases involved a Munia found dead on Repulse Bay Road and a White-backed Munia found dead on Queen¡¦s Road East on February 19. The carcasses were also collected by AFCD staff upon public referrals.

     Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.

Ends/Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Issued at HKT 20:56

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