PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
To mitigate the risk of dengue during the ongoing monsoon season, the Health department has asked municipal bodies, along with Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) workers and volunteers conducting house surveys for dengue larvae, to remain vigilant. Stating this, the Dehradun Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Manoj Kumar Sharma said that there has been a rise in dengue cases recently and the monsoon season typically sees an increase in incidence of this disease. Therefore, preventing dengue has emerged as a pressing issue. Sharma emphasised that the likelihood of dengue infections is indeed heightened during this season, particularly in the critical months of August and September. In response to this situation, the Health department has initiated several measures directed towards dengue prevention during the ongoing monsoon season.
He stated that in light of this situation, they have instructed the municipal bodies to remain vigilant. This means that whenever any larvae are detected in a specific area, these authorities should act promptly to carry out fogging and other necessary measures without delay.
Additionally, he informed that they have asked the ASHA workers and volunteers currently involved in the dengue survey and awareness campaigns (house survey for larvae) to be especially alert during this time and to intensify their efforts during the monsoon season. The CMO said that, for the first time, they have appointed six to seven workers at their level to collaborate with the Health department team on other dengue-related initiatives. These initiatives include prompt action; once the volunteers and ASHA workers report the presence of larvae in a specific location, the six to seven workers with the Health department team will immediately proceed to that site to commence fogging and spraying activities.
He stated that in addition to the municipal bodies, the health department is equipped with 10 fogging machines.
Sharma urged individuals to make sure there is no water accumulation in their surroundings and residences. He advised that they should regularly check the refrigerator trays and other areas where water might collect and take immediate action to eliminate any standing water or waterlogging found. Further, if any symptoms of dengue are observed, individuals should consult a doctor instead of self-medicating.
