Hong Kong has confirmed four imported cases of chikungunya fever this week, along with one suspected local infection, raising concerns about mosquito-borne diseases in the city. The latest case has drawn attention to Shek Lei (I) Estate in Kwai Tsing, where health authorities have intensified anti-mosquito efforts.
Staff from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) were seen conducting insecticide spraying operations, and community volunteers were distributing informational leaflets about mosquito prevention.
The response has been triggered by the growing anxiety among residents.
Residents on high alert
A longtime resident, surnamed Wong, who lives near wooded hillside areas, described her ongoing battle against mosquitoes. She mentioned that despite using an electric mosquito repellent every night, the insects still manage to enter through door cracks.
The retiree also noted that she recently needed medical attention after being bitten numerous times during her morning exercises and now avoids areas with dense vegetation.
Other residents have reported altering their daily routines due to concerns about mosquitoes.
Chan, residing near the estate's sports ground, mentioned that she has reduced the time she spends in outdoor public spaces. She added that the mosquito problem tends to worsen after rainfall, prompting her to increase her cleaning efforts at home.
Mixed levels of concern
However, not all residents are equally concerned. Another resident, also named Chan, who lives on the ground floor, continues his usual precautions against mosquito breeding but does not worry about potential outbreaks. He stated that he hasn't heard of any major epidemics in their area while he applied mosquito repellent before going outside.
The estate's proximity to lush vegetation poses particular challenges. Lui, living in a lower-floor flat near towering trees, highlighted the accumulation of debris near the hillside and sports areas as persistent mosquito breeding grounds.
While he praised the government's current mosquito control efforts, he suggested that more frequent spraying could enhance safety. He expressed that despite the challenges, it is important to continue with daily activities, taking reasonable precautions like installing window screens.
Government action
Local officials have acted swiftly to address the concerns. District Council member Jody Kwok Fu-yung confirmed that mosquito elimination measures have been intensified, including targeted spraying at known problem areas and maintenance of the drainage system.
Additional public education sessions are scheduled for the next week to further raise awareness about prevention methods.
