An urgent meeting was held today to examine the latest Dengue fever situation and mosquito control actions, in the wake of the first local case of the disease this year.
Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Leung Ting-hung chaired the interdepartmental meeting.
He said: "This first local case in 2015, with an onset of symptoms in late May, is the earliest among all local cases recorded since the disease became notifiable in 1994. We are highly concerned as once local transmission of Dengue viruses is established, there may be a rapid surge of cases within a short period which can reach tens of thousands."
The committee agreed to enhance mosquito control actions.
Thirty-five cases have been confirmed so far this year, including one local case and 34 imported ones.
All but one were recorded in the first five months, the highest level in a decade.
As Dengue activity remains high in neighbouring areas, people are advised to maintain strict environmental hygiene, mosquito control and personal protective measures in Hong Kong and during travel.
People are reminded call the Government 1823 hotline to report mosquito problems.
