A meeting of government officials and people's representatives, intended to chalk out strategies to prevent and control the outbreaks of communicable diseases during the monsoon, could not make any headway.
People's representatives, including Minister for Industries P.K. Kunhalikutty, were reportedly in a hurry to rush through the business.
Health Department Assistant Director Bipin Gopal and District Medical Officer (DMO) K. Sakeena had reportedly come prepared with their plans and presentations. We need the cooperation and support of various departments to effectively counter the communicable disease situation, Dr. Sakeena said.
It was no the responsibility of the department alone as activities involved the public at all levels, she added.
Health Department sources said Malappuram was a communicable diseases hotspot. Statistics presented by Dr. Sakeena indicated that there was an increase in the incidence of diseases like leptospirosis, dengue, and hepatitis-A last year.
Mr. Kunhalikutty said efforts would be made to enhance the fund (Rs.10,000) given to every ward to take up prevention activities. The funds allotted to the Sanitation Mission should be utilised more effectively. Each department should be given clear instructions about its responsibility and work and meetings should be held at block level, he added.
K.N.A. Khader, MLA, said primary health centres (PHCs) should be set up in all panchayats. Kannamangalam, Kaladi, Edarikode, and Tenhipalam do not have PHCs, he said.
M. Ummer, MLA, said enough medicines should be made available at government medical shops. P. Ubaidulla, MLA, sought a public health laboratory in the district. District panchayat president Zuhara Mampad said all wells should be cleaned before the reopening of schools. District Collector M.C. Mohandas, District Police Chief K. Sethuraman, and Malappuram Municipal Chairman K.P. Mustafa attended the meeting.
