Expert analysis: SARS experts visit Lower Ngau Tau Kok Estate to examine its physical layout and environmental conditions.

SARS experts visited Amoy Gardens and Ngau Tau Kok Estate today to study environmental factors contributing to the outbreak.

Department of Health officers briefed the SARS Expert Committee Public Health Group on the physical layout and design of Amoy Gardens' blocks.

Members inspected Block E and studied the exterior building design and waste disposal systems.

They visited a flat to have a better understanding of the bathroom setting of a typical Amoy Gardens household. Coronavirus is suspected to have spread through dry U-traps in the plumbing of the estate's bathrooms.

The group then went to Lower Ngau Tau Kok Estate to examine its physical layout and environmental conditions. A number of SARS cases were reported in the estate following the Amoy Gardens outbreak. 

The group later met with legislators to hear their views and concerns on the Government's handling of the epidemic, and spoke to representatives of the Amoy Gardens Residents' Association.