Preliminary testing of a Little Egret found dead in Tuen Mun has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (February 7), adding that further confirmatory tests are being conducted.

     The carcass was collected by AFCD staff on the river side near Lung Mun Oasis following a public referral on February 3.

     The spokesman said there are only two commercial chicken farms within five kilometers of where the bird was found. No abnormal mortality or symptoms of avian influenza was detected among the chicken flocks upon inspection.

     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 7, 2006
Issued at HKT 20:09

Dead chicken in Tuen Mun tested for H5 virus
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    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 7) called on members of the public who might have recently left chickens in Wu Tai Circuit, Tuen Mun or who had closely contacted with chickens in the area to seek medical advice from the nearest public hospital as soon as possible if they develop respiratory symptoms.

     "They are also urged to call the CHP hotline 2575 1221 during office hours for follow up health advice," A CHP spokesman said.

     The appeal was made in view of preliminary testing of a chicken found dead in the area has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, the spokesman said, adding that further confirmatory tests by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation department (AFCD) are being conducted.

     The carcass was collected together with two live chickens by AFCD staff near a lamp post at Wu Tai Circuit following a public referral on February 4.  Initial investigation revealed that the chickens were of unknown origin and were abandoned there.

     According to AFCD investigation, there are only two commercial chicken farms within five kilometers of where the chickens were found.  No abnormal mortality or symptoms of avian influenza was detected among the chicken flocks upon inspection.

     The spokesman reminded members of the public 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 7, 2006
Issued at HKT 22:40