November 3, 2004

Suspected Case of Bird Flu in Hong Kong
 

According to a Hong Kong official, a preliminary test of a dead Grey Heron suggests a suspected case of H5 avian influenza. The dead bird was discovered in the Lok Ma Chau area.

Further confirmatory tests are currently underway.

A worker in the restricted area of Lok Ma Chau had found the dead bird. It was then given to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for testing on Monday.

"As a precautionary measure, the Center for Health Protection had traced all seven persons who had contact with the dead bird, and found they are in good health," the government spokesman said. "We will be monitoring their medical conditions for the next few days.

"All poultry farms within 2 kilometers (about 1 mile) of where the dead bird was found had been inspected by AFCD staff. There was no abnormal mortality and the chickens showed no symptoms of avian influenza."