mangalore today

DHO calls for control of dengue at source in DK


Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, July 23, 2019: Speaking to reporters at the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) office on July 22, Monday, District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Ramakrishna Rao said that at least 4 clinical dengue deaths have been reported in the district so far. He added that one more suspected case of dengue was reported on July 21, Sunday but it is yet to be confirmed through laboratory tests.

 

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“The Health Department has deployed 300 health workers to conduct door-to-door visits. Attention has been given to high risk areas of Gujjarakere, Jeppu Mahakalipadpu, Arikerebailu, Mulihithlu, Kodialbail and Kadri Kambala,” said the officer.

MCC  Commissioner  B A Mohammed Nazir has said that penalties were levied on 14  buildings. “In addition to the raids, the Civil Engineering wing has been clearing the choked drains within MCC limits. Measures have been taken to clear construction debris as well. People’s cooperation is important in controlling dengue and other vector-borne diseases,” he stated.

Corporation Joint Commissioner Gayathri Nayak stressed on the role of collective responsibility and said that source deduction is the mantra for the control of dengue. Under the slogan ‘One Day – Action Day’, sensitisation is being created among schoolchildren, she added.

“Flower pots, discarded tyres, tender coconut shells and terraces should be cleared daily for stagnant water. If found, the stagnant water should be cleared immediately so that the mosquito larvae are destroyed,” she stressed.

Dr Srinivasa Kakkillaya, senior physician, said, “Dengue is caused by four types of viruses and all cases need not be serious. Complications will develop only in 0.5% - 1% cases. Plasma leakage is found in such cases. Recognition of dengue is important in this regard. Red rashes all over the body is the simplest way to identify dengue. As the disease intensifies, one comes across vomiting, giddiness and stomach ache, arising a need for hospitalisation. Consistent monitoring is important.”

Stressing on prevention, he said it is the people’s responsibility to clean their surroundings. “Along with clearing stagnant water sources, one should cover one’s body entirely and use mosquito repellents such as citronella oil and neem oil,” he advised.

During a meeting with the members of the non-government organisations, Gayathri Nayak said that the community participation is important in dengue control.

“The NGOs will create awareness in the areas assigned to them by the Corporation. Door-to-door visits and field works will be carried out by the members of the NGO and a report will be furnished by them to the Corporation,” said the officer.