Press Releases

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) conducted a field simulation exercise today (October 20) to review the department's preparedness in case a poultry culling operation is required in response to an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Hong Kong.

Code-named Lavender, the exercise provided a scenario for staff of departments that need to take part in the culling operation to familiarise themselves with the work procedures and biosecurity measures for carrying out the operation, and to identify areas for improvement in the response plans.

The exercise focused on the overall on-site preparation and implementation of biosecurity measures, such as the procedures for wearing and removing protective gear, as well as the disinfection and disposal of carcasses.

A field command centre and a mock chicken farm were set up for participants to carry out their front-line duties, which included mobilising staff and resources, setting up different operation areas in the index farm, and following personal biosecurity guidelines when entering and leaving the index farm.

Apart from rolling forward various prevention and control measures, the AFCD has stepped up surveillance before the winter season. These measures include conducting surprise inspections targeting local poultry farms and pet bird shops, the collection of more samples from the wholesale poultry market and retail outlets for tests on avian influenza, and enhanced actions with related law enforcement departments to combat illegal importation of live birds at boundary control points.

Over 100 staff members of the AFCD and the Civil Aid Service took part in the exercise.

The AFCD has notified the World Organisation for Animal Health of the exercise.

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