Cases of avian flu in humans have been noted since 1997 in Hong Kong and Asia. The H5N1 bird flu virus is transmitted from infected birds to humans. It is not yet known whether this type of flu can develop a strain that will lead to human-to-human transmission.

Current Information from the Hong Kong Government

Up to date information is available from the Centre for Health Protection.

5 June 2007: The government has introduced legislation banning the keeping of backyard poultry in order to protect public health.

Members of the public may not bring live birds into the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. In addition, it is advised that the public:

• Do not visit poultry farms or markets
• Avoid contact with dead or live poultry
• Wash their hands frequently with soap and water
• Information on emergency preparations for an influenza pandemic in Hong Kong from the Hong Kong government Health, Welfare and Food Bureau: Click here (PDF)

Global Information

• An in-depth analysis of the spread of bird flu and answers to many common questions from the BBC
• WHO, the World Health Organisation, is responsible for coordinating the global response to human cases of avian flu and provides information in English: WHO Avian Influenza

Official Consular Information

Consulates provide information for their nationals in the possible event of pandemic influenza.

• Information from USINFO
• Information from the British Department of Health for British nationals travelling or living overseas
• A guide for Australians living or travelling overseas

Further Information

• Hong Kong Central Health Education Unit

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