The average monthly ovitrap index for last year was 9.9%, compared to 17.8% in 2000, 11.8% in 2001 and 17.6% in 2002.

However, people should continue anti-mosquito efforts and all possible breeding grounds should be cleared before the next rainy season.

Food & Environmental Hygiene Department community medicine consultant Dr Ho Yuk-yin said the index for December also dropped sharply to 0.6%.

Nevertheless, he urged people to pay attention to small containers which are favourable places for Aedes albopictus, a vector of Dengue fever, to lay eggs.

Maintain good hygiene and change water in ornamental plants at least once a week.

Noting that three imported Dengue fever cases had been confirmed this month, Dr Ho advised those who planned to travel abroad to take preventive measures when visiting areas where the virus is endemic, particularly those in Southeast Asia.

Travellers should:

* wear light-coloured, long sleeved clothes and long trousers;

* use insect repellent; and,

* use mosquito screens or nets when staying in rooms that are not air-conditioned.

Details of the ovitrap indices and mosquito control measures are available on the department's website.