Simulation exercise: Infection with avian influenza viruses in Hong Kong (SAR-PRC)

Dr Thomas Sit, Chief Veterinary Officer, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) of Hong Kong [Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (SAR-PRC)], informed the OIE that a field simulation exercise on infection with avian influenza viruses, codenamed “Hydrangea”, will be conducted on 31 October 2017 in Hong Kong (SAR-PRC).

The aim of this exercise, in which the concerned staff is participating, is to ensure the Department's preparedness and readiness in case a culling operation in local poultry farm is necessary.

It focuses on:

• familiarizing the staff with the procedures and biosecurity measures required for carrying out the culling operation to eradicate an outbreak of infection with avian influenza viruses with a view to identify improvements in planning and implementation of procedures.
• the overall on-site preparation and implementation of biosecurity measures, such as the procedure for putting on and removing protective gear, as well as the disinfection of the farm and disposal of carcasses.

A field command centre and a fictitious chicken farm will be set up for players to carry out the frontline duties, which include mobilizing staff and resources, setting up different operation areas in the index farm, and following personal biosecurity guidelines when entering and leaving the index farm.

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World Animal Health Information and Analysis Department
World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)
information.dept@oie.int