Date: 12 February 2009
To: All Residents of Discovery Bay
Re: Preventive Measures against Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) and Influenza
The recent outbreak of Bird Flu in China has aroused concerns among the public, especially followed by the recent discovery of dead poultry in Sha Lo Wan. To prevent Bird Flu or similar infectious disease from spreading out in Discovery Bay, City Management always works closely with professional service providers through implementation of regular cleaning and disinfection programs to maintain a high hygienic standard in our community. Proper handling procedure performed by well-trained cleaners is also in place for removing dead birds and sterilizing the affected spot.
In view of the recent incident, a taskforce has been immediately activated to carry out special duty to strengthen the cleansing program and precautionary measures, including:
1. All cleaning staff must wear rubber gloves during garbage collection.
2. Carry out cleansing and disinfection to the areas where birds’ droppings found with diluted household bleach (1 part household bleach in 49 parts water).
Meanwhile, to prevent the bird flu and influenza, you are kindly reminded to:
- Be cautious about personal hygiene;
- Avoid direct contact with birds and poultry;
- Wash your hands thoroughly with liquid soap and water immediately if you have been in contact with poultry, birds or their droppings;
- Maintain environmental hygiene;
- Maintain toilet and bathroom clean and hygienic;
- Maintain good ventilation;
- Build up good body resistance and have a healthy lifestyle; and
- If you have symptoms of respiratory infection, wear a mask and consult a doctor promptly.
For more information, please visit the website of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health at
www.chp.gov.hk.
If you find any dead birds, please DO NOT handle the body or clean up the spot by yourselves and immediately call us for follow up action on 2238-3601 during office hours; or our 24-hour Customer Services hotline on 3651-2345. The case will then be passed to Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for necessary action.
Timothy Fan
Assistant Manager, Community Relations
City Management