Imphal, June 12 2010: An advocacy meeting for media personnel on 'prevention and control' of vector borne diseases was organised by manipur State Vector borne Disease Control Society at State Guest house today during which senior journalists elucidated on the subject theme.

Stressing on the need for comprehensive control measures against life threatening diseases, former News Editor of ISTV K Madhumangol Singh recounted demise of the powerful Alexander at a young age due to malarial infection in 5th BC to highlight that vector borne diseases had been claiming lives since ages.

Stating that role of media organisations in creating awareness about vector borne diseases is paramount, the senior journalist called upon media persons to contribute their might in preventing casualties due to malaria.

While Executive Editor of Manipur Mail daily N Ibungochoubi Singh emphasised on actively involvement of mediapersons in spreading message of health and education related issues, Project Director (NVBDCP) Dr Ch Dabalo Singh acknowledged role of media in the dissemination of information with regard to steps being initiated by the Government to promote a healthy society.

During the technical session, State Malaria Officer Dr H Nimaichand Singh deliberated on 'NVBDCP: Scenario, objectives and strategies'.

pointing out that one need not panic when infected with malaria, Japanese Encephalitis, Dengue, Chickengunia or Kalaazar, he said through early diagnosis, test and treatment such ailments could be easily cured.

Noting that vector borne diseases are more rampant in hill areas, Dr Nimaichand desired pro-active role of media in informing the people where to get tested and subsequent treatment.

He also clustered Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Bishnupur districts as Japanese Encephalitis prone, whereas Jiribam sub-division of Imphal East, Ukhrul, Chandel, Churachandpur, Tamenglong and Kangpokpi sub-division as Malaria endemic areas.

Moreh Town, he said, faces problem of Dengue disease at an alarming scale.

While conveying that malaria and other viral diseases are common occurrence in the state, he informed all concerned that diagnosis facilities are available at RIMS, JN Hospital and district hospitals of Tamenglong and Churachandpur.

Entomologist Y Krishna Singh, who spoke on 'Mosquito Morphology/Vector Bionomics' pointed out that mosquito bite is the chief factor for spread of vector borne diseases and that there are over 2500 mosquito species that spread the disease.

He suggested that utmost care should be taken to ensure there is no water-logging near residential places.

As pre-emptive measures NVBDCP Biologist T Kamini Singh advised use of mosquito repellents, sprays, malathion fogging etc.

He further informed that Japanese Encephalitis vaccination programme for school going children will commence later this year.

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