PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The Dehradun chief medical officer (CMO) Dr Manoj Kumar Sharma informed that hospitals have been instructed to set up and prepare dengue wards within their facilities.
He said that with the onset of the mosquito season and weather changes, the Health department is fully equipped to address both dengue and malaria cases. The direction has been given to the hospital to prepare the dengue ward and other facilities at the ward, including mosquito traps and other necessary equipment. Dr Sharma said that they have directed the officials concerned to make necessary preparations to combat dengue. Preparations are underway for logistics, including the inspection of spray and fogging machines, as well as assessing the availability of additional fogging machines this year.
He also added that the departmental meeting was recently conducted, during which guidance was provided. Soon, they will organise a meeting with the blood bank and pathology labs to discuss the pricing of related tests and others established during the dengue outbreak. Additionally, he said that this time, they have decided to distribute mosquito repellent and essential items to dengue-infected patients during door-to-door inspections. He added that typically, the inspection and awareness campaigns for dengue, led by Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers, start in July, but if there is a pressing need, they will initiate the activities sooner. So far, there have been no reported cases of dengue or malaria, he stated.
He also provided information about the typical symptoms associated with dengue, which include stomach pain, vomiting, headache, fever and in more severe instances, a drop in platelet count. He emphasised the importance of taking precautions, such as avoiding stagnant water in their surroundings. Additionally, he said that while coconut water and other items can be consumed during dengue, they should not be solely relied upon. He stated that consulting healthcare professionals is crucial while dealing with dengue.
