The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is (December 8) closely monitoring a human case of avian influenza A(H5N6) in the Mainland, and again urged the public to maintain strict personal, food and environmental hygiene both locally and during travel.

The case involves a 54-year-old woman living in Zigong in Sichuan Province, who had exposure to deceased backyard poultry before the onset of symptoms. She developed symptoms on November 17, and was admitted for treatment on November 21 and passed away on November 23.

From 2014 to date, 52 human cases of avian influenza A(H5N6) have been reported by Mainland health authorities.

"All novel influenza A infections, including H5N6, are notifiable infectious diseases in Hong Kong," a spokesman for the CHP said.