A grey heron found in Lok Ma Chau on December 3 has been confirmed H5N1-positive, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says. Frequent checks on poultry farms will be conducted to ensure proper precautions.

The bird died the day after it was found and tested positive for the H5 avian virus. The Centre for Health Protection has traced all six staff who had contact with the bird, and all are in good health and will be monitored.

More than 20 poultry farms within five kilometres of where the bird was found have been inspected. There were no abnormal deaths and chickens showed no symptoms.

Grey herons are a frequent winter visitor, but are not a resident species in Hong Kong.