In view of the positive test results of some sewage samples taken in Yuen Long last week, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung distributed COVID-19 rapid test kits at On Tat Square today, urging residents and those working in the district to undergo voluntary testing.

A total of 1,000 rapid test kits were distributed to the public during the event.

Mr Tang called on residents and people working in the district to get tested promptly for early identification of infected cases in order to help cut the silent transmission chains of the virus.

He also expressed his gratitude to all colleagues and local community members in Yuen Long for their concerted efforts in the battle against the epidemic.

In the face of the risks posed by the highly transmissible variants amid the fifth wave of the epidemic and the positive sewage testing results in some districts, the Government is preparing rapid test kits and distributing them to residents and workers in those districts who have been exposed to infection risks so that they can take the virus test on their own.

The Government stressed that rapid test kit testing is not a substitute for the compulsory testing requirement.

Individuals who are in doubt about their health condition, and those who have visited places with epidemic outbreaks or have had contact with positive cases should undergo testing promptly at testing centres.