The key facts

  • Two samples from the Mai Po Nature Reserve tested positive for highly pathogenic H5
  • There are no poultry farms within a 3 km radius of the sampling site
  • Disinfection, farm monitoring, and live poultry market controls have been intensified

Virus detected at Mai Po

The Mai Po Nature Reserve in Hong Kong has tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza virus, authorities said on Friday. According to Anadolu, citing the South China Morning Post, positive results for two samples were confirmed by a research team from the School of Public Health of the University of Hong Kong; the samples were collected on Wednesday during routine epidemiological surveillance.

Measures taken

A spokesperson for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said the department is closely monitoring the condition of birds in the reserve and has posted notices reminding visitors to observe personal hygiene. Cleaning and disinfection of visitor facilities, including bird-watching hides and the floating boardwalk, have been intensified.

Poultry controls

According to the department spokesperson, there are no chicken farms within a 3 km radius of the sampling site. Avian influenza surveillance has been enhanced, and local poultry farms and the wholesale market are under close observation. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said it will monitor retail outlets selling live poultry for possible risks related to the H5 virus.