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The decision by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to lift the travel advisory on Hong Kong reinforces the world's confidence in Hong Kong's ability to control the virus and curb the further spread of the disease, said Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Thursday.
Tung issued a statement earlier in the day saying the announcement by the CDC Wednesday is a further indication that the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) disease is contained, travel to Hong Kong is safe and life is returning to normal.
"As Hong Kong perseveres through these incredibly difficult circumstances, we must thank our medical professionals -- especially doctors, nurses and support staff dedicated to the health of our citizens," Tung said.
It is also the result of concerted efforts of the whole community in controlling the spread of SARS, he added.
Tung said, "With the CDC's and WHO's recognition of Hong Kong's success in containing SARS, we must continue to be vigilant in our recovery efforts".
"We remain committed to combating the virus and safeguarding the public's health while making Hong Kong a favored international destination," he said.
The World Health Organization lifted its travel advisory on Hong Kong and Guangdong Province on May 23.
Hong Kong reported only one new SARS case on Wednesday, and no additional deaths. Health officials say 1,339 patients have fully recovered and been discharged from hospitals, including 13 who were sent home Wednesday.
(Xinhua News Agency June 5, 2003)
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