Prevention of vector-borne and rodent-borne diseases is an important public health function carried out by the FEHD. The department constantly reviews the methodology used and strategy adopted in pest control to enhance effectiveness and efficacy. Anti-rodent and anti-mosquito campaigns were mounted throughout Hong Kong during the year.

While continuing its surveillance on dengue fever vector in the community, the department expanded the programme to cover all the major port areas. Throughout the year, 22 859 and 170 937 inspections were made to construction sites and village-type houses respectively by anti-mosquito squads, and 55 037 mosquito breeding grounds were eliminated. The anti-mosquito efforts will continue in order to reduce the risk of dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis.