February 20, 2006

Tests confirm bird flu in magpie found in Hong Kong

The new case is the latest in a series of bird deaths from the virus in the territory in recent weeks. About 10 dead wild birds and chickens, found first near the border with mainland China and then in urban areas, have been reported since January.

Saturday, officials said inspections at pet bird stalls at a popular bird market will be stepped up. Samples taken from the pet birds have so far all tested negative for bird flu, the statement said.