The Korean government is strengthening quarantine measures at ports that have passengers and animals coming from China and other countries that have recently reported bird flu infections.

With growing concerns about the fatal H7N9 virus found in neighboring countries, health authorities said they would raise the level of contamination control across the country. So far, there have been no reports of infections or deaths in Korea from the new strain.

The Health Ministry said on Thursday it had tightened quarantine inspections of all travelers and cargo at international airports and sea ports, in cooperation with the Agriculture Ministry. A number of quarantine inspectors have been placed at Incheon International Passenger Terminal and international airports nationwide to monitor travelers who show symptoms of the bird flu.

The related ministries have also started to send warning messages to passengers planning trips to countries under high alert for the virus.

“Travelers to countries that have reported bird flu cases, including China, should keep away from poultry and follow preventive measures for respiratory illnesses such as washing their hands frequently and not coughing in public places,” an official at Health Ministry said.

By Cho Chung-un (christory@heraldcorp.com)