**********************************************************
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) today (December 29) reminded the public to keep up anti-mosquito measures and stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases, despite the recent colder and drier weather.
"The monthly average ovitrap index for November dropped to 1.4 per cent, from 2.9 per cent in October," 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 20 areas, ranging from 1.7 per cent to 8.8 per cent, with the highest in Happy Valley.
As for the port areas, the monthly ovitrap index for November stayed at zero as in October.
"Despite the relatively lower index levels recorded in November, 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.
Moreover, travellers are advised to take the following precautionary measures when visiting areas where mosquito-borne diseases prevail during the coming holidays:
* Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothes and trousers;
* Use insect repellents over exposed parts of the body when outdoors; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when the 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/Thursday, December 29, 2011
Issued at HKT 15:04
NNNN
