Preliminary tests on a White-backed Munia found dead in Mong Kok has indicated the bird may have been infected with H5 avian influenza, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says. More tests are being conducted to confirm this.

AFCD staff collected the carcass at 101-109 Boundary Street on January 16 after a report from a member of the public.

The staff also inspected stalls in Bird Garden in Mong Kok today and found nothing abnormal among the pet birds there for sale. It will continue to monitor the garden.

Of 2,400 samples from pet bird stalls collected last year, none tested positive for bird flu.

The department reminds people to avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry, and to clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them.