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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (August 20) that the monthly average ovitrap index for July fell to 5.7 per cent from 11.8 per cent in June.
"Although the index has dropped significantly, the public should stay alert to the risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases and step up anti-mosquito measures as the current hot and rainy weather is favourable to mosquito breeding," 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 36 areas, ranging from 1.7 per cent to 16.7 per cent, with the highest in Tung Chung, Shau Kei Wan and Sai Wan Ho.
As for the port areas, the monthly ovitrap index for July also dropped to 0.4 per cent from 0.7 per cent in June.
To heighten public awareness of the potential risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis, the third phase of this year's territory-wide anti-mosquito campaign was launched today. It will last for eight weeks.
During the campaign period, relevant government departments and public bodies will strengthen mosquito prevention and control measures as well as publicity efforts in various districts. The first two phases were completed in March and July.
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 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, the spokesman said.
"After rainfall, they should immediately remove water from balconies, rooftops and courtyards," he added.
Moreover, travellers are advised to take the following precautionary measures when visiting areas where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent during the summer 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 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 website at www.fehd.gov.hk.
Ends/Monday, August 20, 2012
Issued at HKT 16:00
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