Press Releases

Interdepartmental task force closely monitors development of Streptococcus suis infection

The interdepartmental task force of the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau today (July 31) continues to closely monitor the latest development with respect to the Streptococcus suis infection in Sichuan.


A spokesman for the task force said at this moment, there was no evidence to suggest that Hong Kong had a risk of outbreak. Nonetheless, the information in Sichuan indicated that infection was mainly associated with contact with infected pigs. Members of the public should therefore stay vigilant on personal and environmental hygiene, and avoid contacting sick or pigs which died of diseases, the spokesman said.


Pig farmers should pay special attention to their own health and monitor the health condition of their pigs. If the farmers feel unwell, they should consult their doctor and if the health conditions of the pigs deteriorates, the pig farmers should inform the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.


The spokesman once again appealed to the cooperation of the pig farmers that they should spray disinfectant powder on pig carcasses and then place them in double layer plastic bags before sending them to Animal Carcasses Collection Points (ACCPs). They should contact staff of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) to check the collection time before sending carcasses there so as to avoid carcasses staying in ACCPs for too long.


In addition, the FEHD would reinforce inspection work at ACCPs, arrange prompt removal of pig carcasses and step up enforcement against the illegal disposal or dumping of pig carcasses.





Ends/Sunday, July 31, 2005

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