January 20, 1998
What is Influenza A H5N1 (bird flu)?
Influenza A H5N1 ("bird flu" or "avian flu") is a newly discovered virus affecting humans. It was previously known to infect birds only. The illness caused by this virus is similar to those by other influenza viruses, commonly presenting with sudden and high fever, malaise, cough and sore throat. Like other influenza viruses, bird flu may sometimes result in complications and deaths.
Is there an outbreak of bird flu in Hong Kong?
As at 4 January 1998 there were a total of 16 confirmed cases of bird flu in Hong Kong, a city of about 6.5 million population. The World Health Organisation stressed that the present cluster of cases in Hong Kong is not at the scale of an epidemic. There is no need for travel restrictions or quarantine measures.
How is bird flu transmitted? Should travellers from Hong Kong be screened?
Studies at this stage show that the main mode of transmission of bird flu is from bird to human. Contact with infected poultry is believed to be the source of infection in the majority of cases. The possibility of man-to-man transmission remains open. Such transmission, even if occurring, is considered inefficient. Screening of travellers coming in or going out of Hong Kong is not necessary.
Why did Hong Kong carry out a chicken slaughter operation?
An operation was carried out in late December 1997 to slaughter all chicken in local chicken farms and all poultry at wholesale markets and retail outlets. The move was a precautionary step to safeguard public health by minimising the risk of bird flu to people in direct contact with chicken. A thorough cleansing exercise has also been carried out to ensure the hygiene conditions of the market place.
How should I prevent bird flu?
Since bird flu is predominately transmitted from bird to man, avoiding contact with live poultry will minimise the chance of getting bird flu. Hands should be washed thoroughly after handling live poultry. Consumption of well cooked poultry poses no risk because the virus is easily killed at a temperature above 56 degrees Celsius.
Is it safe to go to Hong Kong? What is the risk of catching bird flu?
The chance for a tourist catching bird flu is very small. The risk is minimised if the appropriate measures described above are taken. Hong Kong is a safe place to visit.
Should I get inoculated before making the trip?
No. A vaccine has not been developed for influenza A H5N1 yet.
What should I do if I become ill while in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city and medical facilities are adequate and easily accessible. There are some 9 000 doctors in the public and private sector. You may consult your travel agent for a choice of doctors.