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Press Release

Detection of avian influenza A(H5N6) virus from a patient in Sichuan closely monitored by DH

6 May 2014

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (May 6) closely monitoring the detection of avian influenza A(H5N6) virus from a patient in Sichuan according to the latest report of the Mainland health authority.

The male patient is a 49-year-old man who has passed away. Avian influenza A (H5N6) virus has been detected from the patient's respiratory specimen.

"All novel influenza A infections (including H5N6) are notifiable diseases in Hong Kong," a spokesman for the DH said.

"Locally, enhanced disease surveillance, port health measures and health education against avian influenza are ongoing. We will remain vigilant and maintain liaison with the World Health Organization (WHO) and relevant health authorities. Local surveillance activities will be modified upon the WHO's recommendations," the spokesman said.

"All boundary control points have implemented disease prevention and control measures. Thermal imaging systems are in place for body temperature checks of inbound travellers. Random temperature checks by handheld devices have also been arranged. Suspected cases will be immediately referred to public hospitals for follow-up investigation," the spokesman added.

Regarding health education for travellers, display of posters in departure and arrival halls, in-flight public announcements, environmental health inspection and provision of regular updates to the travel industry via meetings and correspondence are proceeding.

The spokesman advised travellers, especially those returning from avian influenza-affected areas and provinces with fever or respiratory symptoms, to immediately wear masks, seek medical attention and reveal their travel history to doctors. Health-care professionals should pay special attention to patients who might have had contact with poultry, birds or their droppings in affected areas and provinces.

Members of the public should remain vigilant and take heed of the preventive advice against avian influenza below:

The public may visit the CHP's avian influenza page (This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/24244.html) and website (This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk/files/pdf/global_statistics_avian_influenza_e.pdf) for more information on avian influenza-affected areas and provinces.


Last Revision Date : 6 May 2014