Leaflet

Avian Influenza

Avian influenza is a type of influenza A which is transmissible to people who come into contact with infected birds or their droppings.

People infected with avian influenza present similar clinical symptoms at the early stage as that of ordinary influenza, which include fever, muscle ache, cough and sore throat. However, those infected with avian influenza may result in high fever, pneumonia, respiratory failure, multi-organ failure and even death.

Do Not Keep Backyard Poultry

In view of public health, the Government has banned the keeping of backyard poultry, including chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons and quails. Offenders are liable to a fine of $50,000 to $100,000.

Handling Bird Carcasses

Avoid touching bird carcasses. When finding bird carcasses:

—	Call the 1823 Call Centre for carcass handling;
—	Clean the surfaces likely to be contaminated with 1:49 diluted domestic bleach.

People should thoroughly wash their hands with liquid soap or disinfectant containing 70% alcohol if they have contacted bird carcasses.

Preventing Avian Influenza

People should observe good personal and environmental hygiene. The public should avoid contacting with sick birds, bird carcasses, their droppings and bodily fluids. People with flu symptoms should wear face masks to prevent infecting others and consult a doctor immediately.

Enquiry Hotline : 1823

March 2021