Wong Tai Sin residents urged to stay vigilant as new chikungunya infections logged

Hong Kong authorities have intensified mosquito control efforts following three additional local cases of chikungunya fever, bringing renewed concern over the spread of the mosquito-borne disease.

The city recorded its first local case two days ago, involving a resident of Fung Tak Estate in Wong Tai Sin. On Monday (Oct 27), health officials confirmed three more infections, including one patient who had been active within the Fung Tak Estate area and whose source of infection is still under investigation.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday morning (Oct 28), Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the government is taking proactive measures to eliminate mosquitoes and raise public awareness on prevention.

“Since chikungunya fever is transmitted by mosquitoes, our primary task is mosquito eradication and promoting anti-mosquito awareness among the public,” Lee said.

He noted that the Environment and Ecology Bureau had established a steering committee yesterday to coordinate anti-mosquito measures across departments. Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan also visited Wong Tai Sin to oversee mosquito control work.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has been conducting intensive fogging operations within a 250-metre radius of the patients’ residences, as well as clearing stagnant water to remove breeding grounds.

Lee added that schools, elderly centres and childcare institutions have been reminded and assisted in carrying out mosquito prevention work, while high-risk areas will continue to be closely monitored.

He also noted that an online health seminar on mosquito-borne disease prevention has received strong public participation, with more than 4,000 people joining the session.