On alert: WHO Director-General Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland says the world should remain vigilant against SARS, eventhough it is coming under control.

Hong Kong has maintained a high degree of alertness and an adequate surveillance system in handling the SARS outbreak.

This was the message from WHO Director-General Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland.

Speaking after inspecting anti-SARS control measures at Hong Kong International Airport, Dr Brundtland said  Hong Kong has been tackling the virus in a serious manner.

She said screening measures at the airport are even more thorough than the WHO's recommendations. The airport is also the first of its kind to check all passengers' temperature to contain SARS.

As it is uncertain whether SARS will return in winter, and the virus may be transmitted from animals to humans, she called on the world to remain on guard and continue surveillance.

Dr Brundtland later joined a dinner reception hosted by Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa at Government House.

Apart from exchanging views on global efforts against SARS, Mr Tung said a professional review is being conducted to improve Hong Kong's public health system so we can cope with another epidemic outbreak in the future.

The review will also examine the need to set up a CDC-type organisation, he added.