Friday, February 15, 2008

Hong Kong Magpie Tests Positive For H5N1

 

# 1667

 

 

Hong Kong, with nearly 7 million residents today, was ground zero for the first outbreak of avian flu in humans back in 1997.  Since then, authorities there have reacted quickly at any hint of bird flu in their territory.

 

Last year 21 migratory birds with H5N1 were found in the 426 sq. mile territory.  This year, 3 herons, and now an oriental magpie robin, have been detected. 

 

We first heard of this dead magpie, found in a market, on Monday.  While suspected of having died of the avian flu virus, test results are just available today.

 

 

 

 

Hong Kong announces finding 2nd bird with dangerous H5N1 bird flu virus in two days

The Associated Press

Published: February 15, 2008

 

HONG KONG: Authorities said Friday that a wild bird found dead in Hong Kong has tested positive for the dangerous H5N1 bird flu virus strain — the territory's second case in two days.

 

The dead oriental magpie robin, native to Asia, was found at a food market Sunday according to a statement from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

 

It was Hong Kong's fourth announcement of an H5N1 case in a bird this year, and came a day after authorities said a gray heron tested positive for the virus.