Govt moves to prevent import of bedbug infestation

In response to the recent emergence of bedbugs in some overseas places, the Environment and Ecology Bureau discussed preventing the import of bedbug infestation with representatives from various sectors and assisting them in sustaining the preventive measures.

The meeting was held on Saturday (Nov 11), with parties including the Airport Authority Hong Kong, the MTR Corporation Limited, the hotel sector, the Tourism Commission, and relevant government departments.

The acting Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Diane Wong Shuk-han, was briefed on various measures that have been taken to prevent the import of bedbug infestation at the Airport, the Airport Express, hotels and the cruise terminal. 

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 also shared technical advice on the preventive measures.

Wong said the government thanked the sectors for their prompt response, including conducting deep cleansing and disinfestation and strengthening anti-bedbug work. 

She added that authorities will distribute information and leaflets on preventing the import of bedbug infestation to relevant sectors to reduce the chances of bringing bedbugs to Hong Kong by returnees and visitors, as well as enhance the public's understanding of the issue.

The Deputy Secretary for Administration will closely review the situation, guide inter-departmental work on bedbug prevention and strengthening prevention of imported infestation, and strive to safeguard environmental hygiene.