HK alert to coronavirus threat

November 27, 2012

Hong Kong has an effective mechanism to detect novel coronavirus cases, Secretary for Food & Welfare Dr Ko Wing-man says, adding the Government has successfully isolated two travellers from the Middle East who had suspicious symptoms when they entered the city.

Speaking to the media today, Dr Ko said the Government is very concerned about the six coronavirus cases reported by the World Health Organisation. With the approach of winter, the Government has already taken numerous measures against influenza and avian flu, he said.

They include the launch of the flu vaccination scheme, and the stepping up of surveillance against influenza, avian flu and novel coronavirus infection among medical staff.

The Government has also boosted surveillance at immigration checkpoints in the detection of novel coronavirus cases, both for local residents returning to Hong Kong, and for visitors.

He urged the public to consult a doctor when they fall ill, and to reveal their recent travel history. He advised the public not to touch wild animals and birds, and not to eat them, or bring them to Hong Kong.