The scaly-breasted munia found dead in Causeway Bay earlier this week was confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

The carcass was collected by AFCD staff in Leighton Road following a public referral on December 31.

The department reminded people to observe good personal hygiene, adding they should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.

Meanwhile, the department has urged the public not to release pet birds as they have little chance of surviving in the wild.

Noting a report alleging that there is no control on such imports from the Mainland was incorrect, the department emphasised that all consignments from the Mainland must comply with requirements including health certification, and they are subject to inspection whether they enter by sea, air or land in accordance with Public Health (Animals & Birds) Regulations.

Inspection stepped up

The department has stepped up inspection of the Bird Garden from three times a week to five. Samples are regularly collected for testing for avian influenza viruses.

Of the 2,400 samples that were tested last year, none was positive for bird flu.

Fresh droppings from wild birds including migratory birds are also collected for H5 avian influenza testing. Last year, 6,400 samples were collected and the results were all negative.