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Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January to March 2009)

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  • #46
    Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

    Hong Kong: CHP investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (2/3/2009) [CHP]

    The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 3) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 47-year-old man.


    The man developed fever and cough on January 27. He consulted a private doctor on January 29 and was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital the next day. Laboratory investigation confirmed Legionnaires' Disease today. He was discharged yesterday and is now in stable condition. He did not have a history of travel during the incubation period.

    Family members were asymptomatic.

    This is the third Legionnaire's Disease case reported this year. Thirteen cases were reported in 2008, 11 in 2007 and 16 in 2006.

    To prevent the disease, people are reminded to observe the following:
    * Reduce susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health.
    * People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions:
    - Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure.
    - Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face.
    - Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants.
    - Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses and
    - Wash hands carefully afterwards.
    * Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.

    For more information about good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pps/oa_ld_pub_cp.shtml) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2007.

    Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
    -

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    • #47
      Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

      Hong Kong: Dead goose and two dead ducks found in Sha Lo Wan test positive for H5N1 virus (2/4/2009) [AFCD]

      A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (February 4) that the dead goose and two dead ducks found in Sha Lo Wan, Lantau last week were confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests.


      AFCD staff collected the carcasses of a goose and a duck on January 29 at a beach near Sha Lo Wan football pitch.

      Another dead duck was found on January 31 at the same location.

      The spokesman said that two more dead chickens were collected on the coast opposite Yeung Hau Temple in Tai O, Lantau today, adding that preliminary tests for the H5 virus are being arranged.

      AFCD will continue to closely monitor the situation and investigate into the possible causes of the recent discovery of bird carcasses.

      The inspections in North Lantau have been completed and no unauthorised keeping of poultry has been observed.

      Separately, AFCD staff inspected 321 villages in Hong Kong today.

      Five live chickens and two live ducks were found unattended in Cheung Po, Kam Tin.

      After taking samples for testing, AFCD has disposed of all the poultry.

      The spokesman said a ban on backyard poultry has been in force since 2006. Unauthorised keeping of five kinds of poultry -chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons or quails ''is an offence with a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000.

      "The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

      "They should avoid contact with wild birds or live poultry," the spokesman said.
      -

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      • #48
        Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

        Hong Kong: CHP investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (2/5/2009) [CHP]

        The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 5) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 59-year-old woman.


        The woman, living in Tuen Mun, developed fever, cough and shortness of breath on February 1. She was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on February 4 and is now in critical condition. The CHP's investigations revealed that she had travelled to the Mainland during the incubation period. Her family member did not have any LD symptoms.

        This is the fourth Legionnaire's Disease case reported this year. Thirteen cases were reported in 2008, 11 in 2007 and 16 in 2006.

        To prevent the disease, members of the public are reminded to observe the following:
        * Reduce susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health.
        * People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions:
        - Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure.
        - Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face.
        - Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants.
        - Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.
        - Wash hands carefully afterwards.
        * Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.

        For more information about the good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pps/oa_ld_pub_cp.shtml) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2007. Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
        -

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        • #49
          Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

          Hong Kong: Confirmed case of dengue fever (2/5/2009) [CHP]

          The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 5) urged people to guard against dengue fever following the laboratory confirmation of a case.


          The case involved a 30-year-old man who developed fever, myalgia and retro-ortbial pain on January 25 . He was admitted to North District Hospital on January 26. He is now in stable condition. CHP's investigation revealed that he had travelled to India between January 14 and 24. His travel companions are asymptomatic.

          This is the first dengue fever reported to CHP this year. A total of 42 cases of dengue fever have been reported in 2008. All were classified as imported cases.

          A spokesman for CHP urged the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and to help prevent mosquito breeding by taking the following measures:
          * Put all used cans and bottles into dustbins with covers;
          * Change water for plants at least once a week, leaving no water in the saucers underneath flower pots;
          * Tightly cover all water containers, wells and water storage tanks, and
          * Keep all drains free from blockage.

          Travellers should take the following preventive measures:
          * Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers;
          * Use insect repellent on the exposed parts of the body, and
          * Use mosquito screens or nets when rooms are not air-conditioned.

          Anyone feeling unwell after returning from their trip should consult a doctor as soon as possible and provide details of their travel to the doctor.

          The latest information on dengue fever in other places can be found under "Travel Health News" on the Travel Health Service website at http://www.travelhealth.gov.hk/eindex.html.

          Travel agents, tour guides and travellers can visit the website for the latest news and advice on preventive measures.
          -

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          • #50
            Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

            Hong Kong: Latest avian influenza test results (2/5/2009) [AFCD]

            Under the present surveillance programme on dead wild birds, preliminary testing of three bird carcasses collected in the past few days has indicated suspected cases of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (February 5), adding that further confirmatory tests were being conducted.


            The bird carcasses included a Grey Heron, a Peregrine Falcon and a chicken.

            The spokesman said the dead Grey Heron was collected at Mai Po Nature Reserve on February 2.

            There is a chicken farm within three kilometres of where the bird was found. AFCD has immediately dispatched staff to inspect the farm and found no abnormal mortality or symptoms of avian influenza among the chicken flocks. The farm will be put under enhanced surveillance.

            "As a precautionary measure, the Mai Po Nature Reserve will be temporarily closed to visitors for 21 days starting tomorrow. We will monitor the situation closely and review the closure period as necessary," the spokesman said.

            On February 3, AFCD staff collected the dead Peregrine Falcon near Long Beach Gardens, Ting Kau, Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan and the dead chicken in Butterfly Beach, Tuen Mun respectively. There were no poultry farms within three kilometers of where the two dead birds were found.

            The spokesman said that two more dead chickens were found at Lung Kwu Tan, Tuen Mun today, adding that preliminary tests for the H5 virus will be arranged.

            As regards the avian influenza test results of the 20 bird carcasses collected on Lantau from February 1 to February 4, preliminary testing showed that three chickens and two ducks were suspected of the H5 virus and further confirmatory tests were being conducted; a duck was confirmed to be H5N1 positive; seven birds tested negative for the H5 virus; and the test on the remaining seven birds is still going on.

            Separately, AFCD staff collected a dead chicken and a dead duck in San Shek Wan today. Preliminary tests for the H5 virus are being arranged.

            AFCD staff inspected 169 villages in Hong Kong today and found two live chickens illegally kept by a man in a household at Ng Ka Tsuen, Pat Heung. The man will be prosecuted under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance for unauthorised keeping of poultry. During the inspection, one live chicken in San Uk Tsuen, Fanling and five live pigeons in Kam Sheung Road, Pat Heung were found unattended.

            After taking samples for testing, AFCD has disposed of all the poultry.

            The spokesman said a ban on backyard poultry has been in force since 2006. Unauthorised keeping of five kinds of poultry -chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons or quails '' is an offence with a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000. All relevant government departments will continue to remain highly vigilant and strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.

            "The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

            The spokesman reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene and avoid contact with wild birds or live poultry.
            -

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            • #51
              Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

              Hong Kong: SFH on avian influenza (2/5/2009) [SFH]

              Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr York Chow, at a stand-up media session after attending Hospital Authority Spring Gathering 2009 today (February 5):


              Reporter:
              (inaudible)

              Secretary for Food and Health:
              It is very difficult to postulate where the three carcasses came from. But from the various investigations we have done, it is most likely drifting down from the Pearl River in the last week or two. Some of the new carcasses we have found are still under investigation. So far we have not found any extra H5 affected carcasses.
              But as you know that we are doing wild bird and dead bird surveillance all the time. We test about 40 to 80 dead birds all over the territory every day. These include both those we have discovered in North Lantau and other areas. If we found any positive test results, we will announce right away. Every year we found some 10 to 20 such cases. As long as they are limited to wild birds, the risk to Hong Kong people is not that high because it has not been reported that wild birds can transmit the disease directly to human beings. It is usually through infection of poultry, and then the sick poultry would affect human beings.

              Reporter:
              (about the risk of avian influenza)

              Secretary for Food and Health:
              I don't think so because the whole region is still under the threat of avian flu, particularly during the whole winter. It is usually after May that the whole region starts to warm up, we will then see a decline of these incidents.

              Reporter:
              (about the H5N1 virus)

              Secretary for Food and Health:
              Let me talk about the virus samples we have collected so far. In the three carcasses which we have isolated the virus, the preliminary discovery is that it is related to a similar type of virus that happened in the southern part of China in the last two years, which is clade 2.3.2.
              But it is slightly different from what we have discovered last year in our market and the outbreak in our local farm in December, which is clade 2.3.4.
              But these are quite common clades of avian flu in the southern part of China and Hong Kong. It is certain that there is no significant mutation of the virus.
              That is actually what we have discovered so far.
              On the eight human infections of avian flu in the Mainland, we do not have the full report yet. But according to the preliminary information that is given to us, it is similar to the various virus that was isolated in northern China in the last one or two years.
              So there is no significant epigenic mutation.
              As far as the nature of the virus is concerned, we are confident that at this moment there is no evidence of human to human transmission and no significant epigenic change.

              Reporter:
              (inaudible)

              Secretary for Food and Health:
              What I have told you is that the virus has not changed that much. Whether the poultry and reaction to the virus, and whether the type of vaccine that is given to the various poultry in different parts of China might have slightly different response, these are something that we cannot conclude at this moment.

              Reporter:
              The threat of avian influenza is still there, right?

              Secretary for Food and Health:
              The threat is always there. We should always be vigilant against infectious diseases, particularly new diseases.For avian flu, the most important aspect is to prevent any people from approaching sick poultry or poultry from unknown source. This is the most important point I want to stress. If we can stay away from live poultry, particularly sick poultry or poultry from unknown source, I think we are pretty safe. I hope this will be the message you can tell all the citizens, particularly those who might have a habit of shopping in places where the poultry might come from unknown source, whether it is in Hong Kong or across the border. This is a very important message for them. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
              -

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              • #52
                Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                Hong Kong: A case of dengue fever confirmed (2/6/2009) [CHP]

                The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (February 6) urged members of the public to guard against dengue fever following the laboratory confirmation of a case.


                The case involved a 14-year-old boy who travelled to Indonesia with four relatives between January 21 and February 3. He developed fever, headache, muscle pain and rashes on January 29 and sought medical treatment in Indonesia the next day. He consulted private doctor upon returning to Hong Kong on February 3 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital the same day. He is now in stable condition.

                The CHP's investigation revealed that two of his travel companions had had fever while the rest are asymptomatic.

                The CHP will continue to follow up the case.

                This is the second case of dengue fever reported to the CHP this year. A total of 42 cases of dengue fever were reported in 2008. All were classified as imported cases.

                A spokesman for CHP urged the public to stay alert to the threat of dengue fever and to help prevent mosquito breeding by taking the following measures:
                * Put all used cans and bottles into dustbins with covers;
                * Change water for plants at least once a week, leaving no water in the saucers underneath flower pots;
                * Tightly cover all water containers, wells and water storage tanks, and
                * Keep all drains free from blockage.

                Travellers should take the following preventive measures:
                * Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers;
                * Use insect repellent on the exposed parts of the body, and
                * Use mosquito screens or nets when rooms are not air-conditioned.

                Anyone feeling unwell after returning from their trip should consult a doctor as soon as possible and provide details of their travel to the doctor.

                The latest information on dengue fever in other places can be found under "Travel Health News" on the Hong Kong Travel Health Service website at www.travelhealth.gov.hk/eindex.html .

                Travel agents, tour guides and travellers can visit the website for the latest news and advice on preventive measures.
                -

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                • #53
                  Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                  Hong Kong: Close watch on influenza-like illness in primary school (2/6/2009) [CHP]

                  In response to media enquiries, a spokesman for the Centre of Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health said today (February 6) that CHP was investigating an influenza-like illness outbreak in a primary school in Mong Kok which was uploaded onto the CHP's website yesterday.

                  The latest development of the outbreak affected four boys and seven girls, aged 6 years old, since February 1, the spokesman said.

                  The symptoms were mild and no hospitalisation was required.

                  CHP will liaise with the school and the Education Bureau during the weekend to assess the latest situation and further course of actions, he added.
                  -

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                  • #54
                    Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                    Hong Kong: Two men will be prosecuted for unauthorised keeping of poultry (2/6/2009) [AFCD]

                    Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) staff inspected 73 villages in Hong Kong today (February 6) and found one live chicken was illegally kept by a man in Ki Lun Tsuen, San Tin.


                    Another man was found to have illegally kept five pigeons in Fuk Hang Tsuen, Tuen Man.

                    They will be prosecuted under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance for unauthorised keeping of poultry.

                    During the inspections, five live chickens in Cheung Po Tsuen, Kam Tin and two live chickens in Shui Tsiu San Tsuen, Shap Pat Heung were found unattended.

                    After taking samples for testing, AFCD has disposed of all the poultry seized today.

                    The spokesman said a ban on backyard poultry has been in force since 2006.

                    Unauthorised keeping of five kinds of poultry -chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons or quails ?V is an offence with a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000.

                    "The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

                    Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.
                    -

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                    • #55
                      Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                      Hong Kong: Investigation into influenza-like illness in school continues (2/7/2009) [CHP]

                      Investigation into influenza-like illness in school continues

                      The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health continued its investigation into an influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreak in a primary school in Mong Kok.

                      CHP followed up with parents of G.T. College (MongKok Campus) today (February 7) to update the situation of students developing ILI symptoms.

                      So far 18 students were reported to have cough, sore throat and running nose.

                      Their symptoms were mild and none of them required hospitalization.

                      A spokesman for CHP said that in view of emergence of more ILI cases, the school is advised to suspend Primary One to Primary Three classes for one week from February 9 for thorough disinfection.

                      "This is a measure to prevent further spreading of the diseases in the school,'' he said.

                      "CHP will closely monitor the situation. Parents are advised to pay attention to the health condition of their children, and to remind them to observe good personal and environmental hygiene."

                      More information on ILI is available on CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk) or through the Central Health Education Hotline 2833 0111.
                      -

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                      • #56
                        Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                        Hong Kong: Up-to-date information of avian influenza available on website (2/7/2009) [AFCD/CHP]

                        Members of the public are urged to heighten their alert against avian influenza and to avoid coming into contact with live poultry and birds and their carcasses, a Government spokesman said today (February 7).


                        The spokesman said:

                        "Winter to spring is the seasonal high risk period for avian influenza.The detection of H5N1 among wild birds and poultry carcasses recently is a cause of concern.
                        In this regard, members of the public are advised to pay extra attention to stay away from the disease by refraining from contacting live poultry, especially dead or sick poultry.

                        "Though our analysis shows that the virus has no mutation for the time being and there is no sign of human-to-human transmission, we should not be off our guard against the disease.

                        ''While the Government is highly vigilant and will continue to strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza, members of the public also have a role to play. The spokesman reminded members of the public to remain vigilant against avian influenza infection and to observe the following measures:

                        * Do not bring live poultry into Hong Kong;
                        * Avoid direct contact with poultry and birds or their droppings; if contacts have been made, they should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water;
                        * Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating;
                        * Wash hands frequently;
                        * Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, hold the spit with tissue and put it into covered dustbins;
                        * Avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever;
                        * Wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or need to take care of patients with fever;
                        * When you have fever and influenza-like illnesses during a trip or when coming back to Hong Kong, you should consult doctors promptly and reveal your travel history.

                        The spokesman reminded people working in poultry farms, wholesale and retail markets to strictly adhere to the following biosecurity measures:

                        * Take precautions to prevent any contact between poultry and other birds;
                        * Use enclosed caging to prevent poultry from leaving/entering livestock premises;
                        * Feeders and drinking water containers should be properly placed to avoid contact with wild birds and contaminants;
                        * Newly acquired birds must be isolated for observation.Immediately report any abnormal health condition of the flock;
                        * Wear suitable protective clothing when touching birds;
                        * Clean and disinfect thoroughly after touching birds or handling their droppings;
                        * Seek medical treatment immediately when feeling unwell.

                        From late January until yesterday, the Government has collected 28 carcasses of poultry and birds along the western coast of Hong Kong.

                        Members of the public can visit the "H5N1 Health Advice" of the website of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) at www.afcd.gov.hk to learn the latest situation.

                        The websites of the Centre for Health Protection and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department also offer the public information on avian influenza. Information including the species of birds infected with H5N1 found in Hong Kong, safety guidelines for handling and disposing of dead wild birds, health advice, latest Government press releases, etc are uploaded on the AFCD website.

                        The website with the latest details of the infected species, submission date for laboratory tests, and location found and a distribution map will be updated regularly. The spokesman added:

                        "Experience underscores that clear public information is crucial to protect public health.If people are fully aware of the risk as well as preventive measures against infectious diseases, they are in a better position to fight against the disease.

                        "As the website is one of the direct ways to relay messages of avian influenza prevention to public, people should make use of the website to obtain the information and take the necessary precautions accordingly."
                        -

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                        • #57
                          Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                          Hong Kong: Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces the update (2/7/2009) [CHP]

                          The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

                          Subsequent to earlier announcement that a 57-year old female patient was admitted into the hospital on February 6, 2009 due to fever, the spokesperson of the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital announces the following update today (February 7):

                          The H5 rapid test of the patient was found negative.
                          -

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                          • #58
                            Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                            Hong Kong: Prince of Wales Hospital announces the update (2/7/2009)

                            The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

                            The spokesperson of Prince of Wales Hospital made the following announcement today (February 7):

                            A 46-year old female patient who presented with fever symptom was admitted to the hospital through Accident & Emergency Department this morning (February 7).

                            She is now under observation in the isolation ward and is in stable condition.

                            H5 rapid test of the patient is found to be negative.
                            -

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                            • #59
                              Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                              Hong Kong: Avian influenza test results today (AFCD)

                              Avian influenza test results available today (February 7) showed that seven dead birds recently found in the territory were confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said.

                              The seven bird carcasses included three chickens and one duck collected on Lantau last week; the Grey Heron collected at Mai Po Nature Reserve on February 2; the Peregrine Falcon found near Long Beach Gardens, Ting Kau, Castle Peak Road, and one chicken found in Butterfly Beach, Tuen Mun respectively on February 3.

                              Detailed information is available at the "H5N1 Health Advice" of AFCD website at www.afcd.gov.hk.

                              AFCD staff inspected 82 villages in Hong Kong today and no unauthorised keeping of poultry has been observed.

                              "The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

                              The spokesman reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene and avoid contact with wild birds or live poultry.
                              -

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                              • #60
                                Re: Hong Kong (PRC SAR): Epidemiological Surveillance Updates from Centre of Heath Protection and other govt agencies (January 2009+)

                                February 9, 2009

                                Schools urged to boost flu precautions

                                Schools are urged to adopt precautionary measures against seasonal influenza as an increase in institutes reporting flu-like illness outbreaks is expected as Hong Kong has entered the flu season.

                                The Centre for Health Protection today announced 11 new institutional outbreaks affecting 51 people on its daily update, mostly involving schools.

                                During 2005-07 the highest number of institutional outbreaks reported every week during the flu season was between 10 and 32. In 2008 the highest weekly number of outbreaks was 106.

                                The centre anticipated the rise of reported outbreaks will persist over the next four to six weeks as Hong Kong stays in the influenza season.

                                An updated guideline with highlights on hygiene and infection control measures was sent to schools, kindergartens and childcare centres before the flu season.

                                School management have been briefed on the criteria of class suspension when there is a flu outbreak in their schools. They are also advised to keep parents properly informed about the latest situation.

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