The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department today urged the public not to come into contact with monkeys or feed them, following a case in which a person was attacked by a monkey in the countryside and fell sick.

The department also reminded the public of the “dos and don’ts” when encountering monkeys. It said people should avoid eating in front of monkeys, and avoid direct eye contact with them to avoid being perceived as behaving provocatively.

When monkeys approach, one should slow down and refrain from getting close to or touching them.

If a person comes into contact with a monkey or its excrement, he or she should immediately wash his or her hands thoroughly with soap and water. If a person is bitten or scratched by a monkey, immediate medical assistance should be sought.

The department also pointed out that the wild animal feeding ban area has been extended to cover the entire territory of Hong Kong. Anyone who feeds wild animals anywhere in Hong Kong without a special permit will be prosecuted and is liable to a maximum fine of $10,000 upon conviction.

Besides being a violation of the law, illegal feeding will also change wild animals’ living habits, making them dependent on human beings for food and thereby raising nuisance or even risk levels for the public, the department added.

The department will continue to neuter monkeys to control their population in the long run. It will also step up education and publicity, such that more people will understand monkeys’ living habits and refrain from feeding wild animals.