Subject: 米埔的禽流感監測 Avian Flu Surveillance at Mai Po [Print This Page] Author: WWF Mai Po Time: 6/11/2012 16:28 Subject: 米埔的禽流感監測 Avian Flu Surveillance at Mai Po
The School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong (HKU) has initiated a research project on the spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1) at Mai Po Nature Reserve. Researchers collect and test bird fecal sample from the Reserve every winter, to understand the role of migratory waterfowls as an agent for the dispersal of the H5N1 virus.
Since 2003, over 30,000 fecal samples from wild birds at Mai Po have been tested and none of these samples tested positive for the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian flu virus. This information supported that bird-watching at the Reserve is a low risk activity. WWF also used this information to negotiate with the government departments and successfully release the policy on closure of the Reserve due to avian influenza case.
HKU researchers will continue the study in the Reserve this winter, locations include: Pond #8a in front of the Tower Hide, Pond #15 next to the Education Center and the island in front of Hide #7 at Gei wai #16/17. The study will commence on 7 November 2012 and last until April 2013. Collection will be conducted every Wednesday morning and will be done as quickly as possible to minimize disturbance to the roosting birds.
We hope birdwatchers would understand the importance of the study to the Mai Po Nature Reserve. We apologise for any inconvenience that might have caused during the sample collection. If you need further information, please contact the Mai Po Office at 2471 6212 and ask for Katherine Leung, Reserve Officer. Thank you for your kind attention and understanding!
[ Last edited by WWF Mai Po at 7/11/2012 09:19 ]
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