ýÿIn response to recent media reports of bedbugs in overseas areas, the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB) today (March 15) held a meeting with representatives from the Airport Authority Hong Kong, the MTR Corporation Limited, the hotel sector, the Tourism Commission and relevant government departments on preventing the import of bedbug infestation, to review the latest situation and work with relevant sectors in sustaining the implementation of effective preventive measures.
      
     The Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, was briefed on the measures taken on preventing the import of bedbug infestation into Hong Kong at the Airport, the Airport Express, the cruise terminals and hotels. At the meeting, representatives from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Port Health Division of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health (DH) shared technical advice on preventing the import of bedbug infestation.
      
     "The Government has always been maintaining close communication with relevant sectors. We thank the sectors for their continuing preventive measures, for safeguarding our first line of defence concertedly and maintaining a high standard of environmental hygiene. The Government and the sectors will continue to pay close attention to the development of the situation, and will maintain close communication with frontline organisations and sectors. For example the FEHD will later liaise with the pest control sector to provide technical support, and to co-ordinate efforts from all sectors to prevent the import of bedbug infestation into Hong Kong," said Miss Wong.
      
     The Government will continue to strengthen publicity and education work at all levels, including distributing information and leaflets on preventing the import of bedbug infestation to relevant sectors, with a view to preventing returnees and visitors bringing bedbugs to Hong Kong. The Government also reminds citizens to inspect hotel rooms thoroughly when travelling abroad, to check whether any bedbugs are attached to luggage and personal belongings, and to disinfect luggage and clothing after returning home to prevent bringing bedbugs home.

Ends/Friday, March 15, 2024
Issued at HKT 19:20

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