Hong Kong SARS update

May 5 2004

Hong Kong has been free from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) since 2 June 2003 and is a safe place to visit.

There have been recent reports of confirmed and suspect SARS cases in the Mainland. Up to 10 a.m. today, the Mainland health authorities have classified seven patients in Beijing and two in Anhui Province as confirmed SARS cases. Preliminary investigation revealed linkage among these patients. The source of infection is under investigation.

Hong Kong remains vigilant and prepared. The Government has enhanced SARS preventive actions. The current response level is Alert Level.

Hong Kong maintains close communication with the Mainland health authorities for updated developments.

Mandatory health declarations and stringent temperature screening checks are being maintained at border points.

Since 23 April 2004, Hong Kong has used an enhanced surveillance system for reporting pneumonia patients with a history of travel to Beijing or Anhui Province during the 10 days before symptom onset. So far, none of these patients have tested positive for SARS.

The public is reminded to remain vigilant and practise good personal and environmental hygiene.

http://www.info.gov.hk