Chinese asked to stay away from Masterton convention

11.45am - by SIMON RANDALL

Chinese delegates have been asked to stay away from the Sister Cities convention in Masterton because of fears over the spread of the virus Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars), organisers said today.

The pneumonia-like virus has killed nearly 80 people worldwide, mostly in China, Hong Kong and Vietnam.

The decision was made by the Sisters Cities board and Masterton District Council, convention organiser Ron Murray told NZPA.

However, the convention, which was scheduled to start today, would go ahead, he said.

Director of public Health Colin Tukuitonga yesterday advised delegates not to offer traditional hongi greetings to delegates from China, one of the countries worst affected by Sars.

The hongi ceremony of pressing noses involves the type of close physical contact the Health Ministry says is responsible for transmitting the virus.

Some of the Chinese delegates came from Guangdong Province, which the ministry had highlighted as affected by Sars, Sister Cities NZ president Jeremy Dwyer said today.

The decision was taken only after "extensive" talks with the organising team, ministry and council officials, he said.

- NZPA