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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) urges people to stay alert to mosquito-transmitted diseases and step up anti-mosquito measures with the advent of the rainy season.
A spokesman for the FEHD said today (May 20) that the monthly average ovitrap index for April had risen to 3.1% from 1.5% in March. The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
Among the 38 areas surveyed last month, positive ovitrap indices, ranging from 1.6% to 12.5%, were recorded in 24 areas, with the highest in Tin Shui Wai.
As for port areas, the average ovitrap index stayed at 0.1% as in March.
"Although the indices in April are relatively low, preventive measures should not slacken as the rainy season has arrived and dengue cases are prevalent in our neighbouring places," the spokesman said.
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 puddles.
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; 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).
Ends/Thursday, May 20, 2010
Issued at HKT 15:01
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