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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (July 15) 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 (July 14) to noon today, the CHP received no notification of cases which fulfilled reporting criteria and one case which did not fulfil reporting criteria. The case is detailed in the Attachment.
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) remains at 53, while the total number of notifications not fulfilling reporting criteria is now 164.
The spokesman 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 contact has been made, they should thoroughly wash their 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 said.
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 CHP's avian influenza page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/24244.html) for further information.
Ends/Monday, July 15, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:30
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