Press Releases

SFH on confirmed human case of avian influenza A (H7N9)

Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, after attending a public function today (January 29):

Reporter: (On measures the Government will take after confirmation of the fourth human case of avian influenza A (H7N9).)

Secretary for Food and Health: This is the fourth case of Hong Kong citizens contracting H7N9 virus after visiting the Mainland, mainly Shenzhen because of the geographical proximity. There is no way that we can stop the human traffic between the Mainland and Hong Kong. There are bound to be many HK citizens paying a visit to the Mainland, so the most important thing is to take precautions. If you are just a visitor to the Mainland, please avoid getting into contact with live poultry or wild birds and avoid visiting or getting close to wet markets with live poultry. If you are living or staying in the affected area for a longer time, and there is no way that you can avoid going to a wet market, then one should adopt more stringent personal protection, such as carrying a mask, and very importantly, washing hands before touching eyes, nose or mouth.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:20

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