*********************************************
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department reminds people to stay alert to the potential hazards of mosquito-transmitted diseases despite the current cool and dry weather.
A department spokesman said today (December 14) that the monthly average ovitrap index for November had dropped to 0.9%, from 4.5% in October.
The ovitrap indices reflect the prevalence of Aedes albopictus, a mosquito vector for dengue fever transmission.
Of the 38 areas surveyed last month, positive ovitrap indices, ranging from 1.7% to 8%, were recorded in 15 areas, with the highest being reported in Yuen Kong, New Territories West.
The index for port areas also dropped from 0.3% in October to 0.1% in November.
"Although the indices in November are lower than those in October, preventive measures should not be relaxed as dengue cases are still 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, he said.
He 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 accumulation of water.
The spokesman said people should inspect their home 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.
Travellers are also strongly advised to take the following precautionary measures when visiting areas affected by mosquito-borne diseases during the Christmas and New Year holidays:
* Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved clothes and long trousers;
* Use insect repellent on exposed parts of the body when going out; and
* Use mosquito screens or nets when the room is not air-conditioned.
Travellers coming back from these places are advised to seek medical advice as soon as possible if they have symptoms such as high fever, severe headache or muscle and joint pain. They should also inform the 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) and through its hotline at 2868 0000.
People can also obtain information and health advice on dengue fever from the website of the Department of Health's Centre for Health Protection (www.chp.gov.hk) and its hotline at 2833 0111.
Ends/Friday, December 14, 2007
Issued at HKT 15:31
NNNN