Mangaluru: MCC Commissioner warns of fines for mosquito breeding sites

Mangaluru: MCC Commissioner warns of fines for mosquito breeding sites

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug 20, 2025: With dengue cases steadily rising, Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) Commissioner Ravichandra Nayak has directed officials to impose fines on buildings, houses, and apartments where mosquito larval breeding sites are detected.

Presiding over the city-level steering committee meeting on the Universal Immunization Programme held at the MCC office on Tuesday, he said that controlling dengue is a collective responsibility.

He noted that due to intermittent rains, the number of Aedes mosquito breeding sites has been increasing. Earlier, mosquito-borne diseases were usually seen only during or after the monsoon, but now cases are being reported throughout the year. With dengue cases on the rise, there is a growing risk of an epidemic, making it a major public health concern, he added.

The commissioner stressed that MCC teams must carry out active larval surveys, eliminate breeding sites, and spread awareness through door-to-door visits. He instructed that special attention be given to construction sites and abandoned buildings, where stagnant water often leads to mosquito breeding. CREDAI members were urged to ensure greater awareness and preventive measures at construction projects.

He also directed that mosquito nets be installed in the houses of migrant workers coming from other states, and awareness be created about timely vaccination.

Rabies awareness

Speaking on rabies, he pointed out that more dog-bite cases are being reported from pet dogs than from stray dogs. Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads mainly through bites of infected animals such as dogs and cats, he said.

Free vaccines are available at government hospitals, while veterinary departments are conducting vaccination camps in rural areas. The public should make use of these facilities, remain alert about rabies, and seek timely medical advice, he added.

He further instructed pet owners not to abandon puppies in public places, as this contributes to the increase in stray dog population.

District Health Officer Dr. H.R. Thimmayya, RCH Officer Dr. Rajesh, District Surveillance Officer Dr. Naveen Chandra Kulal, District Health Education Officer Jyothi K. Ulepady, and several other officials were present.