Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Leung Ting-hung urged people today to be on the alert against Dengue fever, following an increase in cases in neigbouring areas.
Briefing the media on the latest situation, Dr Leung said Guangdong has registered more than 7,000 Dengue fever cases this year, while Taiwan has recorded more than 2,000.
There have been 68 cases of the disease in Hong Kong so far this year - most of them were imported from Southeast Asian countries.
Dr Leung reminded people to protect themselves against mosquitoes whatever the season, by wearing long-sleeved clothing and trousers, and to use insect repellent.
The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department's Pest Control Officer In-charge Yuen Ming-chi also called on grave-sweepers to clear away stagnant water and rubbish before leaving cemeteries during next week's Chung Yeung Festival.
An inter-departmental meeting will be held next week to oversee the anti-Dengue fever measures being taken by more than 20 departments.
