A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (March 5) that the carcasses of a crested goshawk and two Oriental magpie robins found in Mong Kok and Cheung Chau last week were confirmed to be H5N1-positive after a series of laboratory tests.

     The crested goshawk was collected at Diocesan Boys´ School, 131 Argyle Street, Mong Kok on February 24.     
     
     The two Oriental magpie robins were found in Cheung Chau, with one collected from the rooftop at 3/F, 76 Hing Lung Back Street on February 25, and the other found at 80 Hok Loo Lane on February 27.

     While the crested goshawk is an uncommon resident bird in Hong Kong, the Oriental magpie robin is a locally common resident bird.

     The AFCD will continue to conduct inspections of poultry farms to ensure that proper precautions against avian influenza have been implemented.

     The spokesman reminded people to observe good personal hygiene.

     "They should avoid personal contact with wild birds or live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them," he said.

Ends/Monday, March 5, 2012
Issued at HKT 11:08