Another wild bird in Hong Kong tests positive for H5N1

Authorities in Hong Kong say a wild oriental magpie robin found dead ten days ago has tested positive for the deadly H5N1 strain of the bird flu virus.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region says the confirmation follows a series of laboratory tests.

The dead bird was found on February 29th near a management center in Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve in the northern district of the New Territories.

Since last November Hong Kong authorities have reported nine cases of the H5N1 virus in birds.

The H5N1 virus typically becomes more active during the cold and dry winters and authorities in Hong Kong have been on the alert regarding the virus, with contingency plans and education programs aimed at informing the public about bird flu and maintaining good hygiene.

Last week a simulated scenario was conducted around a suspected case of H5N1 avian influenza on a plane at the Hong Kong International Airport involving more than 300 people from government departments.

The Hong Kong government is warning the public to avoid personal contact with wild birds or live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.

Scientists continue to fear that the H5N1 strain of avian influenza will eventually mutate into a form that transfers easily from human to human, triggering an epidemic which could kill millions.

Last month a 44-year old woman in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong died from the deadly virus which she probably contracted from sick poultry in her backyard.

Since the beginning of the year Hong Kong has confirmed five cases of H5N1 infected wild birds including two cases which forced the temporary closure of the Mai Po nature reserve as well as aviaries in the popular Ocean Park theme park.