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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (September 27) reminded the public to take anti-mosquito measures and stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases in light of the uncertain weather during the autumn season.
"The monthly average ovitrap index for August dropped to 8.8 per cent, from 14.3 per cent in July," an FEHD spokesman said.
The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
Among the 44 areas surveyed last month, the Area Ovitrap Index (AOI) in Tseung Kwan O (23.3 per cent) exceeded the alert level of 20 per cent. An inter-departmental anti-mosquito response mechanism has been activated in that area, the spokesman said.
In addition to the regular weekly programme in Tseung Kwan O, he said, 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 inspections and measures to enhance environmental hygiene in areas within their ambits. The aim is to eliminate existing and potential mosquito-breeding grounds.
"Relevant departments have individually notified the groups that had voluntarily subscribed to the ovitrap rapid alert system when the AOI reaches the alert level.
"Subscribers have been invited to post specially designed alert notices in the commonly used parts of their premises to urge occupants and staff to take mosquito prevention and control measures promptly," the spokesman said.
As for port areas, the average ovitrap index also dropped from 0.7 per cent in July to 0.4 per cent in August.
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 an 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.
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/Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Issued at HKT 16:06
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