Mosquito move: Centre for Health Protection Acting Controller Dr Thomas Tsang says Government departments have bolstered anti-mosquito measures.

The Centre for Health Protection has issued a Dengue fever alert to all doctors, urging them to watch for the illness and report suspected cases. The move comes amid Dengue fever reports in Guangdong.

The centre's Acting Controller Dr Thomas Tsang said various departments have bolstered anti-mosquito measures.

"They have also been working closely with different sectors of the community in the fight against mosquitoes through a range of publicity and educational efforts," he said. "The prevention of Dengue fever would not be successful without the alertness and full support of the public. Citizens are urged to stay alert to the threat of mosquitoes and strictly observe anti-mosquito measures."

The travel industry has been informed about the Dengue situation in Guangdong, and health information leaflets on the prevention of the illness are being distributed to travellers at immigration control points.

Twenty-four cases have been reported so far this year, all imported.

Ovitrap indices fall

The latest monthly average ovitrap index fell to 3.9% in August from 6.8% in July, well below the alert level of 20%. Of the 38 areas surveyed, 26 recorded positive area ovitrap indices, ranging from 1.8% to 13%, with only two areas' indices exceeding 10% - Tin Shui Wai (13%) and Tseung Kwan O (12.1%). The index for port areas also dropped from 3.1% in July to 1.5% in August.

For information on Dengue fever, click here or call 2833 0111.