The Government is actively considering the need to set up a fund for SARS patients and their relatives, to help them with hardships they may face, says Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong.

The Social Welfare Department and Hospital Authority are also reviewing assistance offered to SARS-affected people to see if it is sufficient and comprehensive.

Speaking on radio talk shows this morning, Dr Yeoh said a working group will meet next week to follow up on recommendations made by the SARS Expert Committee.

He admitted that there is room to further brush up his communication skills, and apologised to the community for misunderstandings that arose during the SARS outbreak.

Dr Yeoh said he has seriously considered all options, including resignation, to show accountability.

However, any decision to be made should be for the benefit of Hong Kong, he stressed, adding that he will continue to do his best to serve the community.

Hong Kong's dense population and free flow of goods and people makes us extremely susceptible to the threat of new infectious diseases.

Both Hospital Authority Chairman Leong Che-hung and Chief Executive William Ho pointed out that the key to preventing a possible SARS resurgence is to learn from experience and be prepared.

Dr Ho appealed to the public to continue maintain good hygiene practices to curb the spread of infectious diseases.