Public reminded to maintain anti-mosquito measures during autumn
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     The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (October 28) reminded the public to keep up anti-mosquito measures and stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases, despite the recent cooler weather.

     "The monthly average ovitrap index for September dropped to 6.1 per cent, from 8.8 per cent in August," 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, positive ovitrap indices were recorded in 37 areas, ranging from 1.8 per cent to 15.4 per cent, with the highest in Tuen Mun South.

     As for port areas, the average ovitrap index also dropped from 0.4 per cent in August to 0.2 per cent in September.

     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/Friday, October 28, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:31

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