Sharp rise in dengue cases in Aruchal

FROM OUR CORRESPONDENT

Itagar, June 7: There has been a sharp rise in the number of dengue cases in Aruchal Pradesh since the disease was detected first in 2012. In 2015, a total of 1996 dengue cases were detected while the number of dengue cases in the previous year (2014) was only 27, informed Dr. K Lombi, Zol Malaria Officer. Addressing dengue awareness here on Monday, Dr. Lombi said that the dengue cases in the state were first detected in 2012 with 49 people testing positive for it. In 2013, 15 people were detected for dengue. According to her, the main reason for such a high rise in Dengue case was the lack of awareness among people regarding its prevention. Recently also, entomological survey was conducted at various location in the Capital Complex wherein dengue larvae was found posing chance of outbreak of the disease.

She also highlighted the various vector control strategies such as biological, chemical and most importantly environment control like active source reduction from all existing and potential breeding sites and persol control like use of protective clothing, mosquito nets, repellants etc. She listed out few potential breeding sites, like tyres, bamboos, construction sites, any container with stagnt water etc.

Dr. Lombi explained in details about dengue fever, its symptoms, transmission, treatment, potential breeding ground. Since there is no specific treatment for dengue, we should emphasize more on its prevention, she added.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Sandeep Kumar Singh stressed the need for organizing Dengue awareness campaigns so that each and every person gets sensitized who in turn can sensitize others by dissemiting information. He termed everyone as stakeholder and sought their cooperation as it requires a collaborative effort, especially community participation.

The DC informed that a series of awareness programme have been conducted at various location in the Capital Complex and further urged upon the municipality and the Panchayat leaders to conduct more such awareness programme and cleanliness drives at various sectors within their respective jurisdiction, a press release said here today