THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Raising concerns in public health, as many as 28 chikungunya cases have been reported in Vattiyoorkavu this month. Following the outbreak, the district health department and the local bodies have initiated vector control measures.
Chikungunya is a disease transmitted mainly by the daytime bite of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. The disease is most common during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
“The district vector control unit, family and primary health centres, and Thiruvananthapuram corporation have been working together at the division level to prevent further spread. The disease is spread through mosquitoes, and we aim to prevent mosquito breeding and eliminate all sources of stagnant water in the area,” said an official with the district medical office, Thiruvananthapuram.
At a review meeting of health officials and councillors held last week, it was found that the vector indices of the Aedes species of mosquitoes were high in the area.
The district has reported 55 cases so far this month, with other areas, including Peroorkada and Thrikkannapuram, also reporting more cases, with five and three cases each.
Meanwhile, Health Minister K Muraleedharan, who is also the local MLA, on Wednesday said that the real figures of diseases should not be kept covered and that joint efforts are needed in preventive activities.
“The female mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water in containers, construction sites, tires, etc. However, the public should also be cautious and avoid any possibility of mosquito breeding. The containers and indoor plants in houses and flats can also cause spread. Thus, initiatives should be taken at the individual level too,” said the official.
“To control mosquito-borne diseases, we have been observing dry days in schools, offices, and homes on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, respectively. Coordinated efforts of the public, local bodies, and health workers are crucial in creating awareness campaigns at homes by coordinating with health workers and local bodies,” the official added.
Common in monsoon
Chikungunya is a disease transmitted mainly by the daytime bite of the mosquito Aedes aegypti. The disease is most common during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. At a review meeting of health officials and councillors held last week, it was found that the vector indices of the Aedes species of mosquitoes were high in the Vattiyoorkavu area