With increasing anxiety over dengue in the wake of the northeast monsoon, the health department has stepped up its campaign to sensitise people on spread and prevention of dengue. Seven blocks in the district have been identified as susceptible areas and door-to-door visits are being carried out to appraise people on preventive strategies, first-hand.
Dengue is a viral fever transmitted by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The first fact that health officials are trying to get across is that, contrary to popular perception, dengue causing mosquitoes breed in clear and clean water.
Power cuts and subsequent water shortage that compels people to store up water in multiple containers are being cited as reasons for proliferation of mosquitoes. This is seen particularly in areas with water shortage.
The health department has zeroed in on seven blocks that are considered susceptible to dengue and is carrying out door-to door visits, according to K.C. Cheran, deputy director, public health.
These include Thiruverembur, Pullambadi, Manapparai, Manachanallur, Musiri, Andanallur and Thattiengarpettai. Within city limits, the stretch from Subramaniapuram to Airport has been identified.
Officials from the Department of Public Health have intensified fogging, source reduction of mosquito larvae in these places.
By personally visiting each house, officials are able to point out possible places where mosquitoes breed.
On a query regarding the total number of cases reported this season in the district, Dr.Cheran refrained from disclosing figures, while maintaining there was no confirmed dengue related deaths recently.
