H5 Avian Flu Detected in Mai Po Reserve Samples; Authorities on Alert
HK01 · 6 SOURCESabout 12 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department confirmed on November 12 that two environmental samples collected from Mai Po Nature Reserve tested positive for the H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus. The University of Hong Kong's School of Public Health research team, which regularly monitors the reserve in collaboration with the AFCD, discovered the virus in samples collected on November 11. Following the detection, the WWF Hong Kong—which assists the government in managing the reserve—has enhanced cleaning and disinfection of visitor facilities, including bird-watching hides and floating bridges. Disinfectant mats have been placed at the reserve's entrance for visitors to sanitize their footwear. Authorities have emphasized that there are no chicken farms within a three-kilometer radius of the sampling location .
Key Points
- Two environmental samples collected on November 11 from Mai Po Nature Reserve tested positive for H5 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, confirmed by HKU research team
- WWF Hong Kong, managing the reserve, has enhanced cleaning of bird-watching hides and floating bridges, with disinfectant mats installed at entrance
- Sample collection site is within 3km of no chicken farms, reducing immediate risk to poultry supply
- AFCD has strengthened avian flu surveillance at local live poultry farms and wholesale markets
- Public advised to avoid contact with wild birds and live poultry, report sick or dead birds to 1823
Why It Matters
This detection highlights the ongoing risk of avian influenza crossing from wild bird populations into areas accessible to humans, underscoring the importance of the AFCD's surveillance partnership with academic institutions. Although no human infections have been reported and no poultry farms are nearby, the discovery serves as a timely reminder for Hong Kong residents to maintain strict hygiene practices when handling birds or visiting wetlands .
This detection highlights the ongoing risk of avian influenza crossing from wild bird populations into areas accessible to humans, underscoring the importance of the AFCD's surveillance partnership with academic institutions. Although no human infections have been reported and no poultry farms are nearby, the discovery serves as a timely reminder for Hong Kong residents to maintain strict hygiene practices when handling birds or visiting wetlands .