Which dengue serotype is in circulation? Delhi health dept orders tests to find out
[ad_1]
Preparing for a possible rise in vector-borne diseases as several parts of the city remain inundated with flood water, the Delhi government’s health department has directed to determine the serotype of the prevailing dengue virus in identified laboratories.
The step will provide crucial information for developing targeted interventions and enhancing the effectiveness of disease management efforts.
Presiding over a high-level meeting to discuss the strategy for tackling vector-borne diseases on Sunday, Health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj issued directions to prepare a roster for effective monitoring of Domestic Breeding Checkers (DBCs) and their supervisors. This roster, comprising assistant and executive commissioners, superintendents and chief engineers, will oversee the work carried out by DBCs and ensure their compliance with breeding control measures.
The meeting involved key stakeholders from various departments and agencies including MCD, NDMC, DMRC, Health Department, Cantonment Board, CPWD, I&FC, DJB, and vector-borne disease officers of all districts.
An official from the state health department said Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) will also conduct random checks to verify completion of household visits by DBCs. “They will also be responsible for uploading pictures of households visited in a designated group created by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). This measure aims to enhance accountability and transparency in the implementation of mosquito-control measures,” he said.
During the meeting, the MCD Commissioner was directed to deploy drones for mosquito surveillance and control, particularly in vulnerable areas such as construction sites, nurseries, and abandoned houses with inaccessible terraces to identify breeding sites and implement targeted interventions to prevent disease transmission.
Representatives from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) were directed to play precautionary messages provided by DGHS at metro stations and inside trains.
The round-the-clock control room in the DGHS will be strengthened to provide information on sentinel surveillance hospitals and dispensaries, as well as mohalla clinics providing dengue screening and treatment. This measure aims to assist citizens seeking timely medical support and guidance.
The existing 1031 helpline number used during the Covid pandemic will now be utilised to facilitate dengue treatment. This expansion of services will ensure comprehensive support to individuals requiring medical assistance.
The department will also deploy ASHA workers to raise awareness about dengue prevention and mosquito breeding. They will guide symptomatic patients to health facilities, discourage self-medication, and promote responsible healthcare-seeking behaviour.
At government and private schools, children will be provided with dengue homework cards. These cards will be reviewed by the class teacher on a weekly basis to reinforce knowledge about dengue prevention and promote responsible actions.
[ad_2]
Source link