The Centre for Research in Medical Entomology (CRME) here, a premier laboratory of the Indian Council of Medical Research which has been doing extensive research in vector borne diseases, has received blood samples of persons suspected of having dengue fever.
These samples were given to CRME laboratory at the behest of Tamil Nadu Health Department which sought the expertise of its entomologists in doing an advanced analysis and come out with findings about the virus, vector and the fever. “We received 20 blood samples taken from various dengue-affected places in the State. Molecular studies and clinical analysis will be done, and we will investigate the serotype,” B.K.Tyagi, Director, CRME, told The Hindu on Thursday.
The work had started and a detailed report will be given to the Directorate of Public Health in a week. The advanced testing equipment available with the CRME would give accurate and faster results. “The current dengue situation warrants our help and participation. So, we told the health authorities that we can take up dengue confirmatory tests for 70 to 100 persons a week,” he said.
Study in U.P.
Meanwhile, the ICMR has sanctioned Rs.50 lakh to the Madurai-based CRME for undertaking entomological investigation into the breakout of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in eastern Uttar Pradesh (U.P.). “This is a major project for us and we have chalked out a plan for comprehensive virology studies on JE and suggest effective control measures. Four districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh have been chosen for the study,” Dr.Tyagi said.
