Territory-wide anti-mosquito campaign launched
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     A territory-wide, inter-departmental anti-mosquito campaign has been launched to arouse public awareness of the risks of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis, and foster partnerships between government departments and the community in anti-mosquito work.

     A spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), which coordinates the drive, said today (May 2) that aside from the inspection and enforcement work carried out by district pest control staff, control measures would be stepped up and publicity efforts at district level mobilised.

     The current drive is the second phase of an annual anti-mosquito campaign and will be held until early July.

     "All identified and potential breeding places for the vector mosquitoes will be treated. Special attention will be paid to areas in close proximity to residences, schools, construction sites, public housing estates, and hospitals, etc.

     "Relevant departments will help disseminate health education messages to members of public using their services and institute weekly mosquito inspection programmes to eliminate mosquito breeding places under their ambits," the spokesman added.

     The campaign slogan, "Prevent Japanese Encephalities and Dengue Fever, Act Now", and anti-mosquito messages will be publicised through radio and TV APIs, community health talks and a thematic exhibition at the Health Education Exhibition and Resources Centre at Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui.

     Information and advice on anti-mosquito measures are available on the FEHD website (www.fehd.gov.hk).

Ends/Sunday, May 2, 2010
Issued at HKT 15:01

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