Researchers discover H5N8 strain of bird flu in Hong Kong for first time
- Two samples of bird droppings taken from Mai Po nature reserve tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N8 strain
- University professor says the virus might have been brought into Hong Kong through migratory birds
Hong Kong authorities have stepped up their vigilance against bird flu after a highly pathogenic strain was detected in the city for the first time.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said on Thursday it was notified that two samples of bird droppings taken from Mai Po nature reserve by university researchers last Wednesday had tested positive for the H5N8 strain.
Located in the northwestern New Territories bordering Deep Bay, Mai Po is Hong Kong’s largest remaining wetland and recognised for its global importance for sustaining bird migrations. The area is an internationally acclaimed marshland and haven for tens of thousands of migratory birds.
WWF-Hong Kong, which manages the reserve, said it had stepped up cleansing and disinfection of tourist facilities including bird hides and a floating boardwalk. A carpet with disinfectant was also placed at the entrance.
H5N8 bird flu is not known to have ever infected humans, according to experts.
