Jain reviews preparedness against vector-borne diseases
NEW DELHI: Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Thursday reviewed the preparedness and status of action taken for the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases, including dengue, chikungunya and malaria, and seasonal influenza.
The present status of vector-borne diseases, comparative data, future action plan and roles and responsibilities of local bodies, sentinel surveillance hospitals, education department etc were discussed in detail.
Jain emphasised that since the monsoon has already arrived in Delhi, vector-control measures must be intensified by all local bodies and other stakeholders, and community awareness activities must be visible among the people.
All stakeholders were present at the meeting, such as representatives from New Delhi Municipal Council, the three Municipal Corporations of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, District surveillance, Nursing Home Cell, Cantonment Board and all neighbouring districts.
It was informed in the meeting that a control room at the headquarters of Directorate General of Health Services is functional 24x7 with helpline numbers 22307145 and 22300012, to address the queries and grievances of the general public regarding vector-borne diseases and seasonal influenza.
Jain directed these helpline numbers to be circulated widely among the masses.
All construction sites will be visited by the field staff of local bodies on weekly basis to check and eliminate breeding sites and a board containing information regarding vector-control measures must be displayed there.
"More emphasis should be given on vector-control activities and community awareness activities in identifying high-risk wards and underprivileged areas, unauthorized colonies, JJ clusters, construction sites etc," said a senior officer of the Health Department.
"Medical and paramedical staff of school health scheme will be involved in conducting training at schools. A detailed proposal covering all govt and govt-aided schools will be submitted by school health scheme to Secretary Health," said the Health Minister.
