OUR CORRESPONDENT
KOKRAJHAR: A total of 443 malaria-positive cases were reported in Kokrajhar district till April 30. The outbreak has so far claimed three lives, including a 10-year-old girl and two boys aged 15 and 19.
In the wake of a rising number of malaria cases in the district, District Commissioner of Kokrajhar Masanda M Pertin visited a malaria-affected village along with officials from the National Health Mission (NHM) and the district health department to assess the ground situation and oversee response measures.
The field visit aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of medical interventions, ensure the availability of necessary supplies, and engage with the local community to spread awareness about malaria prevention and early treatment.
In a proactive move, DC Pertin convened an emergency meeting on Friday with officials from the health department and the district administration. The meeting focused on reviewing the outbreak status, strengthening containment strategies, and coordinating inter-departmental efforts to prevent further spread. Health teams have been mobilised across the affected areas to conduct door-to-door screenings, distribute antimalarial medicines, and carry out awareness drives.
Meanwhile, there are allegations from some quarters that the actual number of cases may be higher than what has been officially reported. Concerns have been raised about the transparency of data reported by the health department. However, no official response has been issued on the matter so far.
The district administration has urged residents to remain vigilant, report symptoms early, and cooperate with health workers during the surveillance and treatment process.
Among the deceased this year are Runita Narzary (10 years), of Bishmuri New Bashbari under Maligaon SC (Balajan BPHC), who passed away on March 13 at Lower Assam Hospital, Bongaigaon; Fwilao Basumatary (19 years), of Kusumbil Pt-II under Banthijhora SC (Kachugaon BPHC), who died on April 21 at St Augustine Hospital, Chapaguri; and Rituraz Narzary (15 years), of Raimona FV under Raimona SC (Kachugaon BPHC), who died on April 22 at Swagat Hospital & Research Centre, Bongaigaon.
In comparison, the year 2024 recorded eight malaria-related deaths in the district.
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