H7N9 bird flu may return this fall: experts  

Hong Kong (CNS) -- H7N9 avian influenza may make a comeback this autumn due to its seasonal nature, according to a study released Monday by HKU's Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine.

The incubation period for H7N9 is exactly 3.1 days, which is similar to that of 3.3 days for H5N1 influenza, the study shows.

The finding provides an important basis for doctors to adjust the quarantine period for infected persons after an outbreak, said Gabriel Matthew Leung, a director at Li Ka Shing.

The quarantine period for all suspected cases should be twice the incubation time, Leung added.

The study advises departments to improve disease control and prevention now to better prepare for a possible outbreak of H7N9.

   Special report:

    H7N9 avian influenza