The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) was (January 14) notified of two additional human cases of avian influenza A(H7N9) in Guangdong, and again urged the public to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene both locally and during travel.

     According to the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, the two patients in Jieyang and Zhongshan were hospitalised for treatment in stable condition.

     "H5 and H7N9 avian influenza viruses can cause severe infections in humans. Due to the seasonal pattern, our risk assessment shows that the activity of avian influenza viruses is expected to increase in winter months. Increased numbers of human H5N6 and H7N9 cases have been recorded in the Mainland since this winter. Locally, birds positive for H5N6 were also detected this winter. The public, particularly poultry traders, travellers and those who may visit the Mainland in the coming Lunar New Year, should be highly alert. Do not visit poultry markets and farms. Avoid poultry contact. We will continue to monitor the regional and global disease situation," a spokesman for the CHP said.

     From 2013 to date, 680 human cases of avian influenza A(H7N9) have been reported by the Mainland health authorities.