In a disquieting revelation, the state has reported a significant surge in suspected and confirmed cases of vector-borne diseases in the first half of this year. Among these, dengue has emerged as a particularly potent threat with 1,701 suspected cases, of which 177 have been confirmed. Additionally, there have been 195 suspected cases of chikungunya, out of which 2 have been confirmed.
These alarming statistics were unveiled during a joint meeting of the State Task Force for Malaria Elimination and the State Level Committee for Vector-Borne Diseases, presided over by Secretary of Health Arun Kumar Mishra.
The gravity of the situation prompted Secretary Mishra to call for proactive recommendations from various departments regarding the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases.
Additionally, he underscored the need for concrete steps to operationalize these recommendations. Dr. Kalpana Mahatme, the Deputy Director of the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Program and State Programme Officer, provided insight into the diverse methods employed to combat dengue and chikungunya.
The palpable concern surrounding the rise of vector-borne diseases necessitates a deeper understanding of these ailments and the requisite measures to thwart their spread. Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, while chikungunya is spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
Both diseases manifest in symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and muscle aches, and in severe cases, can lead to life-threatening complications.
The surge in these afflictions underscores the imperative for a multi-pronged approach to combat and mitigate their impact.
Efforts to control these diseases encompass various facets, including robust surveillance to monitor and track outbreaks, public awareness campaigns to educate communities about preventative measures, and vector control strategies to curtail mosquito populations.
Moreover, the implementation of comprehensive vector-borne disease prevention and control programs is pivotal to minimizing the risk posed by these maladies.
Amid the burgeoning threat of vector-borne diseases, collaborative and concerted action is paramount.
This entails the alignment of resources, expertise, and initiatives across government agencies, health authorities, and community stakeholders.
Furthermore, leveraging technological innovations and data-driven approaches can bolster the efficacy of disease surveillance and response efforts, enabling a more agile and targeted intervention.
As the specter of vector-borne diseases looms large, it is incumbent upon policymakers, health authorities, and communities to engender a steadfast and coordinated response.
By fortifying our collective resolve and deploying a comprehensive arsenal of prevention and control measures, we can confront this burgeoning public health challenge. The rise of vector-borne diseases demands not only vigilance and preparedness but also an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our communities.
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VECTOR CONTROL MEASURES
PERSONAL PROPHALATIC MEASURES
Use of mosquito repellent creams, liquids, coils, mats etc.
Wearing of full sleeve shirts and full pants with socks
Use of bednets for sleeping infants and young children during day time to prevent mosquito bite
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
Use of larvivorous fishes in ornamental tanks, fountains, etc.
Use of biocides
CHEMICAL CONTROL
Use of chemical larvicides like abate in big breeding containers
Aerosol space spray during day time
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & SOURCE REDUCTION METHODS
Detection & elimination of mosquito breeding sources
Management of roof tops, porticos and sunshades
Proper covering of stored water
Reliable water supply
Observation of weekly dry day
HEALTH EDUCATION
Impart knowledge to common people regarding the disease and vector through various media sources like T.v., Radio, Cinema slides, etc.
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Sensitilizing and involving the community for detection of Aedes breeding places and their elimination
