Timely campaign to rid mosquitoes

More than 2,700 mosquito breeding places were eliminated during a territory wide anti-mosquito campaign organised by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD).

A FEHD spokesman said today (April 30), "Our pest control officers made about 2,000 visits to building/vacant sites in the month of April, during which 79 summonses were served and 1,482 verbal warnings given to those who allowed mosquitoes to breed in their premises."

The campaign, launched in early April, aimed to eliminate mosquito breeding spots, enhance public awareness of mosquito nuisance and educate the public on proper preventive measures.

"During inspections to mosquito breeding places, immediate elimination action was taken by our officers once a breeding spot was located, either by applying larvicidal oil or removing stagnant water to weed out larvae," the spokesman said.

Leaflets on mosquito preventive measures were distributed to building contractors, mutual aid committees and owner corporations whereas posters were put up at conspicuous places to draw public attention to the campaign.

Information on mosquito preventive measures can be obtained from the FEHD's homepage (address : http://www.fehd.gov.hk).

The spokesman appealed to members of the public to carry out regular checks of potential mosquito breeding places within their premises; remove stagnant water; cover water containers properly and clear choked chains.

"They are also encouraged to report mosquito breeding places or spots with stagnant water by calling the FEHD's hotline 2868 0000 or approach the nearest Environmental Hygiene district offices.

"Summonses will be issued to those who allow mosquitoes to breed in their premises. The maximum fine is $25,000 plus a daily fine of $450 upon conviction."

End

Sunday, April 30, 2000