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Preliminary testing of a peregrine falcon found in Tsuen Wan has indicated a suspected case of H5 avian influenza, a spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (January 25), adding that further confirmatory tests were being conducted.
The bird was collected by AFCD staff on Chai Wan Kok Street following a public referral on January 22. Appearing sick at the time, it was transferred to the department's New Territories South Animal Management Centre and later died.
A department spokesman reminded the public to observe good personal hygiene.
"They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and wash their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them," he said.
Ends/Thursday, January 25, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:01
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