Chicken carcass found in Sha Lo Wan tests positive for H5N1 virus
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     A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (December 24) that a chicken carcass found in Sha Lo Wan, Lantau was confirmed to be H5N1 positive after laboratory testing.

     The highly decomposed chicken carcass was found and collected on December 18 on the seashore at Sha Lo Wan.

     The spokesman said the AFCD would continue to monitor the situation and conduct inspections of the seashore and its vicinity.

     "The public can call our Call Centre hotline on 1823 if they come across suspected sick or dead birds, including the carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

     Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

     Health advice is available from the "H5N1 Health Advice" on the AFCD website at www.afcd.gov.hk.

Ends/Friday, December 24, 2010
Issued at HKT 11:31

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