Sources: Available upon request.
01 Nov 2024
Hong Kong suspends poultry imports from Poland
In a recent development, Hong Kong has suspended the import of poultry meat and products from specific regions in Poland following an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza.
In a recent development, Hong Kong has suspended the import of poultry meat and products from specific regions in Poland following an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza. The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department made this announcement to protect public health in Hong Kong.
The suspension affects poultry imports from the Międzychodzki District of the Wielkopolskie Region and the Gorzowski District of the Lubuskie Region in Poland. This decision was prompted by a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) regarding the avian influenza outbreak in these areas.
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly contagious viral disease that affects birds. The H5N1 strain is particularly dangerous as it can spread rapidly among poultry and has the potential to infect humans, posing significant public health risks. The virus can cause severe respiratory illness in humans, and in some cases, it can be fatal.
Hong Kong has a history of taking swift action to prevent the spread of avian influenza. The CFS has been vigilant in monitoring global outbreaks and has previously suspended imports from other regions affected by the virus. This proactive approach aims to minimize the risk of introducing the virus into Hong Kong’s poultry industry and to safeguard public health.
According to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported approximately 3,110 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Poland last year. The suspension of imports from the affected regions is expected to have a significant impact on the supply chain. However, the CFS has assured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and will take appropriate actions based on the latest information from the WOAH and other relevant authorities.
The CFS has also contacted the Polish authorities to discuss the situation and to ensure that all necessary measures are being taken to control the outbreak. The suspension will remain in effect until the situation is resolved and it is deemed safe to resume imports.
This suspension highlights the importance of international cooperation in managing and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. By working together, countries can effectively respond to outbreaks and protect public health. The CFS’s swift response to the avian influenza outbreak in Poland demonstrates Hong Kong’s commitment to maintaining high standards of food safety and public health.
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In conclusion, the suspension of poultry imports from the affected regions in Poland is a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of avian influenza in Hong Kong. The CFS will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary actions to ensure the safety of the food supply and the health of the public.
