July 10th 2024.
In the city of Bhubaneswar, there has been a recent increase in the number of dengue cases. As a result, the state government has issued a directive to all District Magistrates and five municipal commissioners to be vigilant and take necessary steps to prevent and control the spread of this vector-borne disease. Health and Family Welfare department Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Shalini Pandit, has urged everyone to be proactive in identifying hotspots and ensuring the availability of frontline workers, logistics, and drugs.
Pandit emphasizes that during and after the monsoon season, there is a high likelihood of an increase in cases of dengue and malaria. However, with timely implementation of effective measures, the impact can be significantly reduced. In order to ensure a coordinated effort, the Collectors have been instructed to hold meetings with all stakeholders at the district or municipal level to review the joint action plan. They have also been asked to analyze the epidemiological trend of the last five years and intensify surveillance in vulnerable areas.
The Health and Family Welfare Commissioner-cum-Secretary has also stressed the importance of adequate tests, treatment, and timely referral to higher health facilities, if necessary. In preparation for any adverse situations, it is crucial for the district and block Rapid Response Teams to be ready. Additionally, measures to control the breeding of mosquitoes, such as anti-larval and anti-adult measures, should be taken, along with source reduction activities. It is essential to have sufficient drugs and diagnostics available and dedicated wards with mosquito-proofing in health institutions.
Moreover, the Collectors and municipal commissioners have been instructed to ensure the observation of a weekly dry day and strengthen IEC-BCC activities through interpersonal communication to spread awareness about dengue prevention and control. According to sources, there have been around 200 reported cases of dengue in the state, with Khurda district being the most affected. Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das has stated that the civic body is taking all necessary measures to prevent the stagnation of water in residential areas. They are also planning to host roadshows, especially in slums, to increase awareness among the people. Furthermore, fogging has been intensified as a preventive measure.
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