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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (May 13) provided an update on the latest number of suspected human cases of avian influenza A(H7) notified to the CHP, including cases fulfilling reporting criteria and remaining ones not fulfilling reporting criteria.
From noon yesterday (May 12) to noon today, the CHP received notification of one case which fulfilled reporting criteria, and one case which did not fulfil reporting criteria. Cases are detailed in the Attachment.
This brings the total number of notifications received by the CHP since March 31 of cases fulfilling reporting criteria of suspected human cases of avian influenza A(H7) to 24, and the total number of notifications not fulfilling reporting criteria to 90.
A spokesman for the DH urged travellers not to visit wet markets with live poultry in the affected areas, and to avoid direct contact with poultry, birds or their droppings. If contacts have been made, they should thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.
"Influenza A(H7) is a statutorily notifiable infectious disease in Hong Kong. Locally, no confirmed human cases of avian influenza A(H7N9) have been recorded so far," the spokesman stressed.
The spokesman reminded doctors to report to the CHP any suspected case of influenza A(H7). The Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP is ready to receive and test specimens whenever necessary.
The public may visit the avian influenza page of the CHP (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/24244.html) for further information.
Ends/Monday, May 13, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:23
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