The Alert Response Level has been activated following reports of avian influenza cases in Vietnam.

Preventive measures were launched after a suspected case involving a 16-year-old girl was reported in the country last week.

In addition to ongoing health screening measures, including temperature screening at the airport, health messages are being broadcast on all inbound flights from Vietnam and health information leaflets distributed to passengers leaving for the country.

Doctors in Hong Kong and hospitals have been alerted and are required to report suspected cases to the Department of Health. The Centre for Health Protection will step up health advice for the public and is liaising with the World Health Organisation and Vietnamese authorities.

The Hospital Authority will remind staff to continue infection control measures and stay vigilant to symptomatic patients returning from Thailand and Vietnam. The authority plans to activate its Yellow Alert at noon tomorrow and appropriate infection control measures will be implemented accordingly.

Travellers going to areas with infection cases are reminded not to touch chickens or visit farms.