Useful exchange: Inter-departmental Co-ordinating Committee on the Control of Communicable Diseases members exchange views.

City-wide campaigns will be mounted over the next few months to educate the general public on the prevention and control of cholera, enterovirus and Dengue fever.

Dr Thomas Tsang, Chairman of the Inter-departmental Co-ordinating Committee on the Control of Communicable Diseases, said the group, with representatives from 16 Government departments and the health sector, met today to discuss proactive measures against infectious diseases ahead of their anticipated peak seasons this summer.

Latest situation assessed

Members assessed the latest situation on Dengue fever, cholera and enterovirus infection and discussed annual plans for the prevention and control of these diseases by all concerned parties.

They also exchanged experience in implementing disease prevention and control measures and discussed their respective work schedules for the year.

Dr Tsang, who is also the Department of Health's Consultant, said apart from the large-scale campaigns, individual Government departments will enhance civic education.

Preventive measures in place

Department staff are familiar with guidelines and health advice needed to ensure relevant measures are in place to ensure good hygiene conditions of premises, venue, facilities and lands under their control.

The Government is also working closely with different sectors of the community, including schools, childcare centres, public and private housing estates, private medical sector, food premises, rural organisations and villages, and engaging them to take active part in the fight against communicable diseases in the summer months.

Public urged to observe good hygiene

Dr Tsang stressed the success of disease control efforts rests greatly with the active public participation, and appealed to the public to observe personal, food, and environmental hygiene to protect their own health.

The committee will closely monitor the trend and will meet regularly to review the effectiveness of the measures.