The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department today said it has taken action to strengthen mosquito prevention and control work in areas where May’s gravidtrap index for Aedes albopictus exceeded the alert level of 20%.

The overall trend of the gravidtrap index for Aedes albopictus this year is similar to that of last year, the department noted in a press statement.

However, as local mosquito infestation correlates closely with seasonal changes, the gravidtrap index for Aedes albopictus for June might increase due to the continuous rainy days early this month, it explained.

Among the 64 survey areas, the area gravidtrap index in six areas exceeded the alert level last month, mostly concerning the vicinity of public and private residential areas, schools, recreational and sports facilities and public places.

In view of the situation, the department has immediately activated the inter-departmental anti-mosquito response mechanism to co-ordinate relevant departments and stakeholders to strengthen prevention and control. For survey areas subscribed to the gravidtrap rapid alert system, specially designed alert notices have been posted to remind occupants and staff to promptly carry out anti-mosquito measures.

In addition, from January to May, the department eliminated over 22,600 mosquito breeding places and initiated 63 prosecutions against mosquito breeding.

While the department will continue monitoring the change in gravidtrap index and take appropriate actions, it called for citizens to carry out mosquito prevention and control measures at their homes and surroundings.