Medical consultation: Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow and Minister of Health Gao Qiang discuss health relations.

The Mainland has assured Hong Kong of its full support in the control of communicable diseases, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Bureau Dr York Chow says.

He met with Minister of Health Gao Qiang today, who promised timely notification and exchange of information should avian influenza breakout on the Mainland, and to implement control and prevention measures.

The two sides shared experience in combating communicable diseases and exchanged views on future co-operation.

Co-operation mechanism

Mr Gao proposed the two jurisdictions launch a co-operation mechanism for health emergencies. The Central Government will also offer assistance should outbreaks occur in Hong Kong and Macau.

Mr Gao added the Central Government would welcome Hong Kong healthcare professionals joining their Mainland counterparts in international health-related rescue operations.

Dr Chow said Hong Kong would like to step up technical exchange with the World Health Organisation. It would help Hong Kong understand more about the WHO's efforts in the surveillance, control and prevention of communicable diseases. The Ministry of Health will help the Hong Kong Government liaise with the WHO on training.