Chairman’s Announcement (21 June 2004) 

Prevention of Dengue Fever 

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department recorded a sharp increase in Ovitrap index last month.  The Ovitrap Index is a measure of the prevalence of the mosquito vector for Dengue Fever transmission. The index was 31.6% in May 2004, (the index in Tai Wai, Lek Yuen and Ma On Shan is between 32% to 61.8%, which are even higher than the average record in HK).  Although there has been no local Dengue Fever case in the last 19 months, according to the record of the Ovitrap Index, Aedes Albopictus is now highly prevalent in Hong Kong. 

The University has taken active control measures against mosquitoes.  Members of the University are reminded to take preventive measures as well. 

Detail information regarding the Dengue Fever is available at http://www.chp.gov.hk/ and http://www.fehd.gov.hk/safefood/dengue_fever/ovitrap_index.html or at the website of the University Health Service.

Chairman’s Announcement (2 June 2004) 

Special Purpose Residence

In order to be well-prepared for any possible re-emergence of SARS infection in the community, the Task Force had set up the Special Purpose Residence (SPR) in Block 4 of Postgraduate Halls on 1 August 2003.  The purpose was to provide an alternative accommodation for hostel resident students from overseas or from the Mainland who are unable to stay home/hostel for SARS related problems. 

The operation of the SPR was recently reviewed by the Task Force.  In view of the present situation where the threat of SARS is under control, health screening measures such as health declaration and body temperature checks for travelers are in place at all immigration control points, and a majority of hostel resident students will return home during the summer vacation, it is recommended that the operation of SPR will end after 12 June 2004.  Meanwhile, the Task Force will work on possible longer-term plan on provision of observation facilities. 

Although the SARS situation is now under control, the Task Force encourages all staff and students to remain vigilant, keep up the good practice of personal and environmental hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, and watch out for the health promotion activities in the University.  Please refer to the recommendations as contained in the “General Preparedness and Vigilance Level” of our Campus (SARS/Flu) Alert and Action Plan.