051124en05009

	news.gov.hk
	From Hong Kong's Information Services Department

November 24, 2005

Health

HK prepared for bird flu outbreak: CE

Chief Executive Donald Tsang says Hong Kong is well prepared for any possible avian flu outbreak, adding the Government can respond quickly and adequately.

An inter-departmental communication exercise was held today to review Hong Kong's response to a situation in which a resident developed 'flu symptoms' after visiting a 'country where 41 people were confirmed to have been infected with avian flu'.

The patient was later 'confirmed as infected' and Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow activated the Emergency Response Level.

Over 220 staff from 30 Government departments and organisations participated in the drill. Mr Tsang convened a high-level steering committee to give directives on the overall disease control strategy.

Prompt response: Chief Executive Donald Tsang heads 220 Government staff in the bird flu drill.

Speaking after the exercise, Mr Tsang said the drill tested the Government's responsiveness in terms of efficiency and appropriateness in a worst case scenario.

"After today's experience, we will be able to respond to any outbreak in a more timely and appropriate manner."

Director of Health Dr Lam Ping-yan said the drill will enable the Government to review procedures as set out in the Framework of Government's Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic.

"The adequacy of contingency operational protocols formulated by the departments and organisations concerned will be reviewed after the exercise," Dr Lam said.