A new development by the University of Hong Kong in identifying the virus behind atypical pneumonia helps to speed up diagnostic tests.

Hospital Authority Director Dr Ko Wing-man said the new findings are a positive development, however, he believes scientists will need more time to research them.

Deputy Director of Health Dr Leung Pak-yin said the diagnostic tests will play an important part in controlling the disease.

"Once we pin down the virus and develop diagnostic tests, we can identify that particular disease, so that we can have a clearer picture of what is going on and the size of the problem in the community," Dr Leung said.

Meanwhile, as at 1pm, 247 people were under observation in hospitals and 242 of them had been diagnosed with the virus. Thirty nine were in intensive care and eight had died.

The Department of Health has launched a dedicated website www.info.gov.hk/dh/ap.htm on atypical pneumonia to provide health advice on the prevention of respiratory tract infection and the latest information on cases.