Meet on vector-borne diseases

L-G directs agencies to ensure there is ‘zero tolerance' for mosquito breeding

Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) Anil Baijal chaired a meeting at Raj Niwas here on Friday to discuss preparedness of different government departments in relation to vector-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya and malaria in addition to seasonal influenza or H1N1 in the Capital.

The meeting was attended by Health Minister Satyendar Jain, the Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary (Health) and representatives from other government departments.

“A detailed presentation was made on past experience and challenges. After that, the status of present preparedness and a roadmap for coming months was discussed. The L-G directed all agencies to take effective steps for prevention of vector-borne diseases. He added that all local bodies and other stakeholders should ensure there is zero tolerance to mosquito breeding,” Raj Niwas said in a statement.

The L-G, added the statement, mentioned that community awareness, and participation and involvement shall be the key strategy. He also emphasised educating the community and involvement of public at large for containment of the dengue, chikungunya and other vector-borne diseases.

“It was decided that public awareness will be carried out on a large scale through extensive information, education and communication [IEC] activities this year too,” the statement said.

‘Best ambassadors’

Mr. Baijal observed that schoolchildren were the “best ambassadors” for undertaking breeding control activities and awareness generation among family and friends. Mr. Jain stressed that campaigns in schools must be started before summer vacation so that the period of vacation can be used.

The L-G directed the Health Department and other agencies to be well-prepared in terms of logistics for dengue patients.

“It should be ensured that at all time, throughout the year, there should be sufficient stock of test kits, medicines for treatment of dengue, chikungunya and malaria. It was stressed that special efforts must be made to ensure that JJ clusters and vulnerable areas are given more emphasis,” the statement said.