Hong Kong has halted imports of poultry from Japan because of an outbreak of bird flu.

The Center for Food Safety in Hong Kong announced this past weekend that it was immediately suspending the processing of applications for importing poultry and poultry products  from Japan until further notice.

“The decision was taken following confirmation of an outbreak of the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 in Yasugi city,Shimane Prefecture, Japan,” a CFS spokesman said.

“We are seeking further information about the case from the relevant authorities,” the spokesman added.  “We are closely monitoring the situation in the country.”

Hong Kong imported about 3,800 tons of frozen poultry from Japan this year between January and September.