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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) urges people to step up anti-mosquito measures and to stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases with the advent of the rainy season.
A spokesman for the FEHD said today (April 17) that the monthly average ovitrap index for March had risen to 1.5%, from 0.2% in February. 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 1.7% to 9.1% , were recorded in 19 areas, with the highest in Kwun Tong Central.
As for port areas, the average ovitrap index stayed at 0.1% as in February.
"During this time of the year when the rainy season is round the corner, the humid and warm weather is conducive to mosquito breeding. Dengue cases are also 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.
The spokesman 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; clear drains and surface channels to prevent blockage; fill up all defective ground surfaces, 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/Saturday, April 17, 2010
Issued at HKT 15:03
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