The Government is to step up a surveillance mechanism for influenza by gazetting the addition of influenzas A (H7) and (H9) to the list of infectious diseases specified in the First Schedule to the Quarantine & Prevention of Diseases Ordinance.

The legislative amendment, which will take effect upon its publication in the gazette, is made in view of the rapidly evolving global situation with avian influenza.

The World Health Organisation held an influenza pandemic consultation meeting earlier this month, which noted human infections with influenza A (H5), A (H7), and A (H9) have been occurring more frequently in recent years.

The Department of Health said strengthening surveillance of influenza A (H7) and (H9) in Hong Kong is in line with local and global public health needs, adding influenza A (H5) has been included in the list of statutorily notifiable diseases since January 30.

Doctors to get letter informing them of amendment

The move will enhance the coverage of the infectious diseases surveillance system, enabling more effective and early detection and the implementation of appropriate public health control measures when necessary.

Under the ordinance´s Prevention of the Spread of Infectious Diseases regulations, medical practitioners are required to notify the Director of Health if they have reason to suspect the existence of any infectious diseases listed in the First Schedule to the Ordinance. A total of 30 infectious diseases are included in the schedule.