The Interdepartmental Co-ordinating Committee on Mosquito-borne Diseases held a meeting this afternoon for an epidemiological update on the Zika virus and Dengue fever, and to discuss mosquito control actions.
Members agreed to strengthen mosquito control measures by government departments and their contractors.
They suggested engaging the whole community in vector control in households, housing estates, construction sites, institutions and schools, workplaces, public areas and the environment.
Centre for Health Protection Controller Dr Leung Ting-hung said the most important protective measures against Zika virus are mosquito control and the prevention of mosquito bites in high-risk individuals.
He urged people, particularly pregnant women, to take personal protective measures.
He reminded those arriving in Hong Kong from affected areas to apply insect repellent for two weeks after arrival, adding that DEET-containing insect repellents are safe and effective.