Press Releases

Grey heron tests positive for H5

        A Government spokesman confirmed today (December 11) that the results of preliminary tests on a grey heron found in Lok Ma Chau have indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, adding that further tests were under way to confirm the nature of the virus.

        The affected bird was collected by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) in Lok Ma Chau on December 3. Appearing to be sick at the time, it was sent to the New Territories North Animal Management Centre for isolation and observation. It died the following day.

        A post-mortem examination conducted on the carcass later at the department's Tai Lung Veterinary Laboratory showed the bird was an H5 suspect.

        The spokesman said: "Subsequent tests on the bird by testing of cloacal and tracheal swabs, brain and lung tissues all indicated an H5 positive result.

        "As a precautionary measure, the Centre for Health Protection had traced all six staff members who had contact with the dead bird, and found they are in good health. We will be monitoring their medical condition in the next few days."

        As a safety measure, all poultry farms within five kilometres of where the bird was found have been inspected by the AFCD.

        "There is no abnormal mortality and the chickens show no symptoms of avian influenza," 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 clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.

        The grey heron is a frequent winter visitor, but rarely visits Hong Kong in the summer. It is not a resident species in Hong Kong.

Ends/Saturday, December 11, 2004

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