ENG-2005 — Page 217

Health | 179

Recognising the complexity of tobacco control issues, the office has adopted a multi-pronged approach to achieve its goals. One of the priority areas is to assist managers and staff working in statutory no-smoking areas to comply with and enforce the Smoking (Public Health) Ordinance. In 2005, the Tobacco Control Office organised 70 workshops for 1 311 venue management staff of statutory no-smoking areas. Tobacco Control Office officers also visited 114 restaurants and 72 shopping malls and explained the legal requirements to managers of these no-smoking areas. In addition, 114 Smoke-free Workplace Workshops were conducted for 2 631 managers and other members of staff.

Under the ordinance, tobacco advertisements are prohibited in printed publications distributed in Hong Kong; or displayed in writing or other permanent or semi-permanent form. A total of 35 warning letters concerning tobacco advertisements were issued during the year. The office also organised health education activities by itself or in collaboration with other organisations to increase public awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco and second-hand smoke.

Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health

The Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health is an independent statutory body set up to acquire and disseminate information on the hazards of using tobacco products, and to advise the Government on matters related to smoking, passive smoking and health.

During the year, the council conducted publicity and community involvement campaigns with particular emphasis on discouraging smoking in public places and in workplaces. The council continued its school health education programmes. In addition to 162 health talks delivered to primary and secondary schools, the council arranged a tour of an interactive education drama in 66 primary schools. The council also operated a telephone hotline to receive enquiries, suggestions and complaints from the public on matters related to smoking and health.

The council set up a new website, www.smokefree.hk, in April 2005 to disseminate tobacco control information and smoke-free messages for the public.

Disease Prevention and Control

Centre for Health Protection

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) was set up under the Department of Health on June 1, 2004. The mission of the centre is to achieve effective prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases in Hong Kong in collaboration with local and international stakeholders.

During the first year of operation, CHP has been working towards its objectives and making good progress. To enhance disease surveillance and preparedness for infectious diseases, a Central Notification Office, a 24-hour Hospital Outbreak Response Team and an interim Emergency Response Centre were

set up. Management protocols for communicable diseases including plans to sufficient preparation for SARS and an avian influenza/influenza pandemic have been devised, with regular exercises to increase preparedness in handling disease