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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (February 26) that the Rodent Infestation Rate (RIR) for the second half of 2009 had dropped to 3.6%, compared with 6.6% in the same period of 2008. The overall RIR for 2009 also dropped to 6.1% from the previous year's 6.3%, representing a general improvement in the territory's rodent infestation.
The RIRs for all districts fell below 10% in the last six months of 2009. The highest three were Wong Tai Sin (8.6%), Sham Shui Po(7.8%) and North (7.5%).
The higher RIRs recorded in some districts were mainly due to poor hygiene conditions in rear lanes, including improper handling of food remnants and indiscriminate disposal of refuse.
Highlighting the importance to eliminate food sources and to remove and block harbourages for rodents, a department spokesman called for concerted efforts to improve environmental hygiene.
He said the FEHD had stepped up anti-rodent efforts in districts in addition to regular prevention and control measures in 2009. These included increased manpower at district level to co-ordinate the rodent control efforts of District Councils, local organisations and other government departments, and organise public education and promotion work.
Targeted anti-rodent measures were being carried out for six months from October 2009 in areas with more serious rodent infestation; and additional baited cages were used.
In 2009, the FEHD trapped and eliminated about 31,900 rats, and filled about 9,300 rat holes. About 6,300 warnings were issued during inspections.
For more information on rodent control measures and RIR, please visit FEHD's website: www.fehd.gov.hk .
Ends/Friday, February 26, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:34
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