Investigations have not found a link between the deaths of two local pig farmers of a pneumonia-like illness in the past six months. Centre for Health Protection consultant Dr Thomas Tsang said the men tested negative for SARS.

An inter-departmental working group meeting was held today to look into these two cases and a package of new measures were mapped out to enhance investigation, surveillance and risk communication with the community.

Dr Tsang said the family members of the two deceased have no symptoms. Evidence collected by the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department found no unusual deaths among local pigs in Hong Kong. However, he said the Government will continue investigations and liaise with Mainland officials.

Pneumonia reporting

The centre and the Hospital Authority will form a special arrangement that requires doctors report pneumonia cases among hospitalised pig farmers and live pig handlers.

North District Hospital reported a pneumonia case today, involving a 61-year-old man who works in Sheung Shui Slaughterhouse. His condition is stable.

A special hotline 2125 1133 has been launched for pig farmers to report any pneumonia hospitalisation they may have had since June 1. It has received seven calls so far. Six were for enquiries. One was from a 42-year-old male safety supervisor of Sheung Shui Slaughterhouse who had been hospitalised at North District Hospital for pneumonia in mid-September. His illness responded to antibiotics and he has recovered. He had no direct contact with pigs at work.