Hong Kong's Mai Po Nature Reserve: two samples test positive for highly pathogenic H5 bird flu
Two samples collected during routine surveillance in the Hong Kong reserve were positive; authorities stepped up disinfection and monitoring of poultry farms and the wholesale market.
Hong Kong's Mai Po Nature Reserve has tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza virus, authorities said on Friday, according to aa.com.tr aa.com.tr
aa.com.traa.com.trOpen source ↗. A research team from the University of Hong Kong's School of Public Health confirmed positive results in two samples collected on Wednesday during routine surveillance, a spokesperson for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
The AFCD is closely monitoring the birds in the reserve and has put up notices reminding visitors to pay attention to personal hygiene. Cleaning and disinfection at visitor facilities, including bird hides and a floating boardwalk, have been stepped up.
The spokesperson said there are no chicken farms within 3 km (1.9 miles) of the sample collection site. Bird flu surveillance has also been increased, while local poultry farms and the wholesale market are being closely monitored. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said it would monitor live poultry stalls for possible H5 virus risks.
