A five-year-old boy has been confirmed to have contracted and recovered from the Influenza A virus (H9N2).

The boy developed fever, cough and runny nose on November 25 and was admitted to United Christian Hospital on the 27th. He was discharged two days later.

The Department of Health said this is the second time this avian virus has been isolated from a human in Hong Kong, the last case being in 1999 involving two girls who also recovered fully.

Department Consultant Thomas Tsang said the department has informed the World Health Organisation, Macau and Guangdong about the case.

The boy did not travel outside Hong Kong recently. Some family members have recent mild cough.

Dr Tsang stressed that this is an isolated case and the source of infection is being investigated.

He said, based on previous experience, the department will look into bird-to-human transmission.

The department will issue letters to doctors to alert the medical community, and liaise with the Education & Manpower Bureau to reinforce messages to kindergartens and schools on the importance of hygiene.

Dr Tsang said influenza A (H9N2) is an avian influenza virus which has been isolated from duck and chicken for many years.  Infection in humans is rare, and appears to present as a mild form of disease.

He said Hong Kong has a very comprehensive avian influenza surveillance programme. As a precautionary measure, he reminded people to avoid contact with live poultry and to wash hands thoroughly with soap after handling poultry.

For updated information visit the department's website or call 2833 0111.