What Hong Kong could learn from Taiwan in the battle against dengue fever

The area of Hong Kong infested by the dengue fever vector, the adult Aedes albopictus mosquito, was larger this July than in the previous 11 years, and there have been at least 24 confirmed local cases of the disease. That is why health chiefs have sought community efforts to curb the outbreak.

I believe the authorities could take a lesson on fighting dengue from Taiwan, which also has a subtropical climate and has faced serious seasonal outbreaks of the disease. They have a national multi-tier programme to collect information and list the main breeding grounds for the vector, so that these can be eliminated. Besides, they supervise and inspect the result of removal of breeding sources periodically, for effective prevention.

Training is also provided to citizens and volunteers on eliminating the breeding sources overall. This makes the prevention of infestation more effective. Education provided to village chiefs, local officials, sanitation squads, and community volunteers also raises public awareness of dengue fever and potential hotspots.

Hong Kong’s dengue fever outbreak hits record high

This shows how community efforts are important. As locals will know better which parts of the district have more serious mosquito problems, they can help identify these places and carry out preventive measures, such as removing stagnant water to stop mosquitoes from breeding. This should become a regular habit of every citizen.

The problem of mosquitoes and dengue fever can be tackled better if the government and community works together.