T’puram: Preventive and control measures against vector-borne diseases have been intensified in various wards under the Vattiyoorkavu family health centre (FHC) following the reporting of an increase in chikungunya and dengue cases, said the district medical officer.As many as 54 chikungunya cases and 87 dengue cases were reported in Vattiyoorkavu area during June and July. A detailed action plan has been prepared to contain the spread of diseases, with source reduction, fogging, and awareness campaigns being carried out at the field level.A special review meeting led by the DMO will be held at the Vattiyoorkavu FHC on Friday to assess and plan further preventive measures.In Vazhotukonam ward, which reported a higher number of chikungunya cases, the vector control unit, Vattiyoorkavu FHC public health staff and Asha workers carried out continuous preventive activities for a week. These efforts have resulted in a significant decline in chikungunya cases in the area, officials said.In Kodunganoor ward, where dengue cases were reported, a rapid response team meeting was held under the chairmanship of the health standing committee chairperson. A mass source-reduction drive was subsequently conducted under the leadership of the mayor. Health workers, Asha and anganwadi workers, corporation employees, haritha Karma Sena members and representatives of residents’ associations participated in the drive.In Nettayam ward, an RRT meeting was held under the chairmanship of the ward councillor to coordinate dengue-control measures. Intensive source-reduction activities, distribution of awareness leaflets, and fogging were carried out with the participation of voluntary organisations and local community groups.The DMO said that dengue and chikungunya are currently under control in the area. The public was urged to fully cooperate with the preventive measures being carried out jointly by the health department and local self-govt institutions.Health advisoryChikungunya and dengue are transmitted by aedes mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant, clean water. Residents should inspect their homes, surroundings and institutions at least once a week, and eliminate potential mosquito-breeding sites.The DMO urged people to observe ‘dry day’ on Fridays in schools, Saturdays at workplaces and Sundays at homes.Those experiencing symptoms such as high fever, severe joint pain, headache or chills should avoid self-medication and seek treatment at the nearest health centre immediately, the DMO advised.
