A hotline, 2575 1848, has been set up to handle questions from Vietnamese tourists and people who feel unwell after visiting Vietnam, following reports of a suspected bird flu outbreak in a village in that country.

Speaking at a press briefing this afternoon, the Centre for Health Protection's consultant Dr Thomas Tsang said the hotline will help identify suspected bird flu patients who will be sent to hospitals for treatment and testing.

The centre has also been liaising with the World Health Organisation and the Vietnamese Consulate in Hong Kong to obtain information on the latest developments in the country.

Noting a total of 24 bird flu cases have been confirmed in the country since late last year, Dr Tsang said Hong Kong has taken preventive measures against the disease.

They include temperature screening at the airport for arrivals, the broadcasting of health messages and distribution of health information leaflets on board all in-bound flights from Vietnam and the distribution of health information leaflets to passengers leaving for the country.

Health leaflets updated

"The health information leaflets will be updated today reinforcing the health messages and incorporating the enquiry hotline. The leaflets will be disseminated to the airlines concerned for distribution to passengers leaving for or returning from Vietnam," Dr Tsang said.

All doctors and hospitals have been alerted about the avian influenza cases in Vietnam. All parties are required to report suspected cases to the Department of Health for follow up.

Dr Tsang advised travellers going to countries with avian flu cases to maintain good personal and environmental hygiene. They should avoid visiting farms and having direct contact with chickens or their faeces.

"They should also be on the lookout for any symptoms of influenza-like illness including fever, sore throat and coughing after returning to Hong Kong. If symptoms develop, they should seek medical attention promptly and contact the centre," he said.

Peak flu season to last several weeks

Speaking on the latest flu situation in Hong Kong, Dr Tsang said this year's peak flu season is different from the previous year.

"Last year, most of the flu cases were related to H3N2 virus. But this year, we see a mixture of influenza viruses circulating in the community, including H3N2, H1N1 and Influenza B virus."

Noting Taiwan and Japan have also entered flu season, Dr Tsang expected the peak flu season in Hong Kong will stay for a couple of weeks.