|
Winter and spring are the high risk period for avian influenza. People mainly become infected with avian influenza virus through contact with infected birds, poultry or other animals, or via contact with their droppings. Though human-to human transmission is inefficient, we should not be off guard against the disease.
To reduce the risk of exposure, members of the public are advised to pay extra attention to personal hygiene and refrain from directly contacting poultry and wild birds, especially dead or sick birds, and their droppings.
The Government is highly vigilant and will continue to strictly enforce preventive measures against avian influenza.
Members of the public should remain vigilant against avian influenza infection and observe the following measures:
* Avoid direct contact with poultry and birds or their droppings; if contacts have been made, they should wash hands thoroughly with soap and water;
* Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating;
* Wash hands frequently;
* Cover nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, hold the spit with tissue and put it into covered dustbins;
* Avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever;
* Wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or need to take care of patients with fever;
* When you have fever and influenza-like illnesses during a trip or when coming back to Hong Kong, you should consult doctors promptly and reveal your travel history.
People working in poultry farms, wholesale and retail markets should strictly adhere to the following biosecurity measures:
* Take precautions to prevent any contact between poultry and other birds.
* Use enclosed caging to prevent poultry from leaving/entering livestock premises.
* Feeders and drinking water containers should be properly placed to avoid contact with wild birds and contaminants.
* Newly acquired birds must be isolated for observation. Immediately report any abnormal health condition of the flock.
* Wear suitable protective clothing when touching birds.
* Clean and disinfect thoroughly after touching birds or handling their droppings.
* Seek medical treatment immediately when feeling unwell.
Announcement for the Public Interest on "Prevention of Avian Influenza"
Let’s fight against Avian Influenza! An Announcement for the Public Interest (API) has been launched to increase the public awareness on Avian Influenza and it tells us what we should do to prevent Avian Influenza:
1) Do follow quarantine procedures when importing birds into Hong Kong;
2) Do not keep backyard poultry, release birds and feed wild birds.
So let’s check it out!
Download English transcript (PDF)
For the latest information about Avian Influenza occurring in Hong Kong, please refer to the following table and map.
Table and Map
|
