Hong Kong: Suspected H5N1 in Swallow, Yuen Long

Nancy suspected with bird flu virus

[Date :2010-3-31 7:10:36]

Reader's Li Yuan, Shenzhen, reports a spokesman for the Hong Kong Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said yesterday, according to preliminary tests, one in Yuen Long Barn seized H 5 suspected of carrying bird flu virus, authorities are continuing to further confirmatory tests.
The dead bird was found on March 26, Castle Peak Road, Yuen Long, Mai Po was seized, swallow normally visit in spring and summer.
The spokesman said, "As a precautionary measure, the Mai Po Nature Reserve temporarily closed from 31, 21, we will closely monitor the situation due to review the closure period should be." It is understood, Fisheries and Conservation Department has been closely monitoring the area in Mai Po Nature wild birds, from the beginning the winter of 2002, and collected faecal samples for bird flu tests H 5.
The spokesman said the dead bird was found within three kilometers of where there are five chicken farms, the department has sent staff to inspect the farm and found no abnormal mortality or symptoms of any bird flu. AFCD will step up monitoring on the farms.

The spokesman said "In response to this case, the AFCD has phoned poultry farmers reminding them to strengthen precautionary and biosecurity measures against avian influenza. In addition to poultry farmers, we have to remind bird shop owners, license holders of pet poultry and racing pigeons to take appropriate precautions. "
The spokesman said the department will step up inspections of poultry farms, wholesale market and the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, and to remind the industry to health, to take appropriate measures against avian influenza. AFCD will continue to closely monitor the wild birds.

Suspected of carrying bird flu received the Barn body, the Hong Kong authorities have to act. FEHD will monitor the import of live poultry and live poultry retail outlets, and to remind stall operators to maintain health. Department of Health will continue to implement public health education and distribute health advice leaflets. AFCD, FEHD, the Customs and Police, will continue its efforts to intercept illegal import of poultry to reduce the inspection and quarantine of the birds did not bring the risk of avian influenza outbreaks.

The spokesman reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene, avoid contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings, and should wash their hands thoroughly after contact with poultry, poultry meat and egg consumption should be thoroughly cooked. If they find dead or sick birds, including wild birds and poultry carcasses can contact the 1823 Call Center Department.