Imports of live birds, live poultry and poultry products from an area in Jiangmen in Guangdong province have been suspended for 21 days after the Ministry of Agriculture notified the Food & Health Bureau of an outbreak of avian influenza among ducks in Xinhui district.

Birds and poultry products from anywhere within a 13-kilometre radius of the area are affected. The Hong Kong Government has also suspended the import of pet birds from the area for 21 days. It is following up with the Guangdong Entry-Exit Inspection & Quarantine Bureau, seeking more information.

According to the quarantine bureau, only one registered farm - about 7km from the infected area - supplies live poultry to Hong Kong, small quantities of chukar and pheasant.

Relevant Guangdong authorities have stepped up control and preventive measures, and say no abnormality has been found in the province's registered chicken farms.

In Hong Kong, government departments will also enhance preventive and control measures to guard against bird flu, and the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department will step up inspections of local poultry farms.

People are reminded to avoid touching live poultry and birds, and their doppings. If they do have contact with them, they should wash heir hands thoroughly immediately afterwards.

Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before eating.

Travellers returning from areas with bird flu outbreaks who develop flu symptoms should immediately consult doctors, inform them of their travel history, and wear a mask to prevent the spread of disease.