Press Release

Sustained efforts to prevent dengue fever

September 4, 2003

The Government will continue to take vigorous and effective measures against mosquitoes to prevent the spread of dengue fever in Hong Kong.

The Chairman of the Inter-departmental Co-ordinating Committee (ICC) on Dengue Fever, Dr Thomas Tsang, today (September 4) said that members of ICC had reviewed the current situation and progress of work, and agreed on prevention strategies against dengue fever at a meeting held recently.

Convened by the Department of Health, the meeting was attended by representatives of 14 other departments and public organization.

These included the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Education and Manpower Bureau, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Architectural Services Department, Environmental Protection Department, Home Affairs Department, Highways Department, Housing Department, Information Services Department, Lands Department, Leisure and Cultural Services Department, Marine Department, Social Welfare Department and the Hospital Authority.

"A record high number of imported cases were recorded this year. Twelve cases were recorded in August alone, and a total of 36 imported cases up to early September this year," Dr Tsang said. The total number of imported cases was 24 in 2002.

"Although no local cases have been reported so far this year, the threat of local spread of dengue fever exists. Vector control and promotion of public participation are important components of prevention strategy," he said.

Main tasks include:

• Regular inspection and vector control measures in areas and premises under the management of respective member departments or organization, including construction sites, housing estates, schools, hospitals, clinics, waste transfer and disposal facilities, recreation, sports and cultural venues, country parks, vegetable and fish markets and cargo handling areas;
• Territory-wide Anti-mosquito Campaign as well as special anti-mosquito operations in Islands District;
• Raise public awareness through regular dissemination of dengue fever statistics and ovitrap indices;
• Publicity and public education through health talks, exhibitions, posters, leaflets, VCDs, broadcast of messages on TV and radio, newsletters, websites and hotlines;
• Plan to conduct a survey on public knowledge, attitude and behaviour in dengue fever prevention.

Dr. Tsang reminded members of the public to play an active role in dengue fever prevention by taking necessary measures to eliminate mosquito breeding and avoid mosquito bites.

Information on dengue fever is available at DH website This link will open in a new windowhttp://www.dh.gov.hk/ and information on mosquito control at FEHD website This link will open in a new windowhttp://www.fehd.gov.hk/.