HK steps up mosquito control, but heavy rain disrupts efforts

Hong Kong has intensified mosquito prevention measures following the city's first imported case of chikungunya fever this year, but recent heavy downpours are hampering efforts as insecticides risk being washed away.

Anita Fok Ming-yan, Chief Pest Control Officer of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), said on a radio program Tuesday that persistent heavy rain has affected mosquito control operations.

"Insecticides may be washed away by the downpours, so we will reinforce mosquito-killing measures once the rain subsides," she explained.

Immediate action near patient’s home

Since last month, the FEHD has stepped up mosquito control across the city to curb the risk of chikungunya transmission.

After the imported case was confirmed, authorities immediately conducted vector surveillance within a 250-meter radius of the patient’s residence, eliminating stagnant water and fogging dense vegetation to kill adult mosquitoes.

Fok noted that 21 construction sites near the patient’s home were inspected yesterday (August 4), with contractors instructed to remove standing water and apply insecticides. She said the contractors cooperated fully, and the FEHD will continue monitoring compliance.

Public Urged to Help Prevent Mosquito Breeding
With frequent heavy rain increasing mosquito breeding risks, Ms. Fok reminded residents to clear stagnant water around their homes, especially in drains and small containers where mosquitoes thrive. "While the government is taking action, public cooperation is crucial to prevent outbreaks," she said.

Call for vigilance

Lawmaker Edward Leung Hei, speaking on the same program, urged calm despite the imported case.

"As long as people take proper precautions, such as using mosquito repellent, the risk remains low," he said. However, he stressed the need for enhanced mosquito control in high-risk areas like Tai Po, Sai Kung, and North Point to prevent local transmission.

(Marco Lam)