A dead scaly-breasted munia found in northern Hong Kong has tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza virus, the city government said in a statement on Monday.

The bird was found on June 18. The scaly-breasted munia is a common resident bird in Hong Kong.

A spokesman for the city's Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department said the department would continue to conduct inspections of poultry farms to ensure that proper precautions against avian influenza have been implemented.

He also reminded people to observe good personal hygiene. "They should avoid personal contact with wild birds or live poultry and clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them," he said.