Japanese encephalitis has been found in mosquitoes collected during vector surveys in Yuen Long.

The Food & Environmental Hygiene Department today urged the public to stay alert to the risk of the illness and to take proper anti-mosquito measures.

Various Government departments have strengthened inspections and mounted special operations in the area, such as larviciding and fogging, to clean the environment and remove mosquito breeding places.

The department reminded people to:

* ensure continuous water flow in water-logged fields by installing pumps or water gates and removing stagnant water regularly;

* inspect water-cultivation areas and animal farms frequently;

* eliminate stagnant water in surface channels; and,

* remove water in containers for animals after feeding and cover the containers properly after use.

People visiting areas with mosquito-transmitted diseases should:

* wear light-coloured long clothes;

* use insect repellent on exposed parts of the body when outdoors; and,

* use mosquito screens or nets when in an open room.