Officials in Hong Kong say a 36 year old Indonesian woman is in critical condition after becoming infected with the avian influenza- or bird flu- the first human case recorded outside mainland China.

Hong Kong's Food and Health Secretary, Dr Ko Wing-man.

(SOUNDBITE)(English) HONG KONG SECRETARY FOR FOOD AND HEALTH, DR. KO WING-MAN, SAYING:

The victim is a 36-year-old Indonesian domestic helper. She has a history of travelling to Shenzhen, buying a chicken, slaughtering and eating the chicken. (cover with broll) We have also escalated the response level of our Preparedness Plan for Influenza Pandemic to 'Serious'."

This particular strain of bird flu, H7N9, was first detected in mainland China earlier this year and has killed 23 people.

Governments around Asia had taken strict measures to try and avoid the spread of the disease.

Residents at poultry markets in Hong Kong say the outbreak won't stop them from eating chicken.

I'm not worried, this p