********************************************************
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (July 22) reminded the public to step up anti-mosquito measures and stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases as the rainy season is conducive to mosquito breeding.
"The monthly average ovitrap index for June rose to 12.1%, from 9.7% in May," an FEHD spokesman said.
The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
The Area Ovitrap Index (AOI) in four areas have reached or exceeded the alert level of 20%. They include Ma On Shan (24.1%); Tseung Kwan O (21.7%); Kwun Tong Central (21.4%) and So Kwun Wat (20%).
An inter-departmental anti-mosquito response mechanism has been activated in those areas. In addition to the regular weekly programme, the FEHD will clear potential mosquito-breeding grounds in public places and apply larvicides to stagnant water where appropriate, handle mosquito complaints promptly and take out prosecutions under the relevant ordinance against mosquito breeding.
The departments concerned have stepped up inspection and measures to enhance environmental hygiene in areas within their ambits. The aim is to eliminate existing and potential mosquito-breeding grounds.
The spokesman said, "The FEHD will closely monitor the situation in other areas and strengthen control measures."
Furthermore, under the ovitrap rapid alert system introduced by the FEHD in April this year, relevant departments have individually notified the groups that had voluntarily subscribed to the system when the AOI reaches the alert level.
Subscribers have been invited to post specially designed alert notices in commonly used parts of their premises to draw the attention of occupants and staff to take mosquito prevention and control measures promptly," the spokesman added.
As for port areas, the average ovitrap index dropped slightly from 1.1% in May to 1% in June.
Aedes albopictus breeds in small water bodies. The spokesman advised the public and estate management bodies to scrub all drains and surface sewers, and to limewash them with alkaline detergent compound at least once a week to remove any mosquito eggs.
They should also keep drains free of blockage and fill up all depressions to prevent puddles forming.
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.
"After rain, they should immediately remove water from balconies, rooftops and courtyards," he added.
Moreover, travellers are advised to take the following precautionary measures when visiting areas where mosquito-borne diseases prevail during the summer holidays:
* Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothes and trousers;
* Use insect repellents over exposed parts of the body when outdoors; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned.
Travellers returning from these places should seek medical advice if they have symptoms such as fever, severe headache or muscle and joint pain. They should also inform their doctor of their travel history.
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/Friday, July 22, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:01
NNNN
