Type of Intervention: Specific Action
Sectors Involved: Health
Level of Jurisdiction: Special Administrative Region
Lead People/Agency: The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department Assistant Director (Inspection & Quarantine) Dr Thomas Sit
Overview: Genetic sequencing tests were being carried out on the pet dog of a confirmed COVID-19 patient which could reveal if the virus has mutated or not. Dog owners were advised to wash their hands, wear gloves and try to stop their dogs from licking their surroundings to prevent the virus from spreading further.
Full details here: https://www.news.gov.hk/eng/2020/03/20200305/20200305_170541_678.html?type=category&name=covid19&tl=t
Type of Justification: Advice of EXTERNAL expert advisor or advisory committee
Evidence/Justification: To compare the dog’s genetic sequencing to the virus isolated from the patient for mutation checking