The Ad-hoc Group on Prevention of Avian Flu at City University of Hong Kong has bolstered measures to prevent the spread of avian flu on campus after reports from the World Health Organization that the H5N1 virus has been found in more countries.

These preventative measures track closely the Government's three-level response system and ensure a healthy campus environment.

“We are alert to any changes in the level of the Government's response system and we are ready to take prompt and necessary action,” said Professor Y S Wong, Vice-President (Administration) and Chairman of the Group, adding that staff and students must remain vigilant against a possible outbreak.

Professor Wong said life on campus would not be disrupted and he urged staff and students to maintain a balanced diet and take physical exercise. “A healthy body is essential for studying and working,” he said.

At a meeting last week, the Group discussed a set of guidelines on the prevention of an influenza pandemic. The guidelines were prepared by the Human Resources Office and advise staff on the necessary measures to take in line with the Government’s response system. The Guidelines (for staff only) can be downloaded from the Campus Prevention of Avian Flu website.

In addition, Facilities Management Office (FMO) and the Health Centre have installed automatic soap dispensers at key locations around campus and made sure surgical masks and thermometers are accessible in case of any emergencies.

The FMO has trained its staff to handle dead birds found on campus, but other staff and students are advised to avoid direct contact. Anyone coming into contact with dead birds must wear disposable water-proof plastic gloves and surgical masks. If you see anything suspicious on campus, please report to the FMO immediately.

Staff and students are also advised to visit the University’s avian flu website, which has been revamped to include an archive of the University’s guidelines and news relating to avian flu locally and around the world.