The Hong Kong government would temporarily cease processing applications for the importation of live birds and poultry meat from the United States, a Hong Kong government press release said on Wednesday.

In view of the evolving situation in the outbreaks of avian influenza among the poultry farms in the state of Delaware, the United States, a spokesman for the Health, Welfare and Food Bureau of Hong Kong announced Wednesday that the government would temporarily cease processing applications for the importation of live birds and poultry meat from the United States.

"This is a precautionary measure taken to protect public health. We are seeking information from the United States about these outbreaks in Delaware and will review our position when more information is available," the spokesman was quoted as saying in the press release.

(Xinhua News Agency February 11, 2004)