PANAJI
The State has reported 177 cases of dengue in the first half of this year with heavy rains contributing to the increase. The North district recorded the highest 155 cases while the South reported 22 cases.
With the North district at risk of dengue cases, Mapusa reported a maximum of 29 cases followed by Colvale with 22 Saligao with 18, and 15 cases each in Pernem and Siolim. No cases were reported in Chinchinim, Quepem, Dharbandora, Navelim, Sanguem, Bali and Marcaim as of June.
State Programme Officer/Health Officer Dr Kalpana Mahatma attributed the rise in cases to the surplus rainfall this year. She revealed that 60 cases were recorded in June, averaging two cases per day.
“Our field officers are conducting house-to-house surveys to identify potential breeding sites with the assistance of village panchayats and municipal bodies. We are also distributing leaflets and pamphlets, and are urging residents to avoid accumulating water and to keep their surroundings clean,” she said.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, responding to an unstarred question in the Assembly on Thursday, stated that fever surveys are being conducted around the homes of individuals with positive malaria and dengue cases as a proactive measure. The department is analyzing fever trends to predict potential dengue outbreaks.
“Anti-larval and anti-adult measures, including fogging, are being carried out regularly based on the detected cases. Meetings with stakeholders such as builders, contractors, councillors, sarpanches, and BDOs are held regularly during the pre-monsoon season for inter-sectoral coordination. We are also introducing fish into unused wells as a biological method to prevent breeding,” Rane stated.
In a related measure, the Health Department has asked Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited to remove debris and close all pits and ditches that could lead to water stagnation and breeding.