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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has urged the public to step up anti-mosquito measures and stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases as the current rainy season is favourable for mosquito breeding.
A department spokesman said today (June 16) that the monthly average ovitrap index for May had risen to 11.8%, from 2.9% in April.
The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
Among the 38 areas surveyed last month, 36 of them recorded positive ovitrap indices, ranging from 1.8% to 37.5%.
He said readings in three areas fell into the alert zone of 20% to 40% - namely Yuen Kong in New Territories West (37.5%), Diamond Hill(28.8%) and Sheung Shui (23.6%).
"The inter-departmental anti-mosquito response mechanism has been activated in these districts. Government departments concerned have strengthened inspections and stepped up efforts to enhance environmental hygiene conditions and eliminate existing and potential mosquito-breeding grounds in addition to the regular weekly programme," the spokesman said.
"The department will also closely monitor the situations of other areas."
As for port areas, the index also rose slightly from 0.2% in April to 0.9% in May.
Aedes albopictus can breed in very small water bodies. Surface channels, discarded containers, sand traps and abandoned tyres all provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes if they are not properly handled.
The spokesman advised the public and estate management bodies to scrub all drains and surface sewers and limewash them with alkaline detergent compound at least once a week to remove any mosquito eggs. They should also keep the drains free from blockage and fill up all depressions to prevent accumulation of water.
He said people should inspect their homes and surroundings to remove potential breeding grounds; scrub vases and pot plant saucers at least once a week; properly dispose of containers such as soft drink cans and lunch boxes; clear drains and surface channels to prevent blockage; fill up all defective ground surfaces, and drill large holes in unused tyres.
The ovitrap indices and information on anti-mosquito measures under the Anti-Mosquito Weekly Inspection Programme are available on the department's website (www.fehd.gov.hk) and through its hotline at 2868 0000.
People can also obtain information and health advice on dengue fever from the website of the Department of Health's Centre for Health Protection (www.chp.gov.hk) and its hotline at 2833 0111.
Ends/Monday, June 16, 2008
Issued at HKT 15:03
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