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Although the ovitrap indices recorded last month stayed at zero, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (March 21) reminded the public to keep up effective measures against mosquito breeding as mosquito eggs will start to hatch when the weather turns warm and humid.
"Both the monthly average ovitrap index and the monthly port ovitrap index for February remained at zero as in January," an FEHD spokesman said.
The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
"The departments concerned will continue their efforts to maintain environmental hygiene conditions in areas under their ambit to eliminate existing and potential mosquito breeding grounds," the spokesman said.
Aedes albopictus breeds in small water bodies. The spokesman advised the public and building 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 from 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," he said.
Moreover, travellers are advised to take the following precautionary measures when visiting areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent during the Easter holidays:
* Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothes and trousers;
* Use insect repellent over exposed parts of the body when outdoors; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when a 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, March 21, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:04
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