Minister stresses public's role in curbing dengue
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, September 22 2024: Health & Family Welfare and IPR minister Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh has called upon the public to maximise efforts and intensify measures to contain and prevent dengue.

The call comes in response to recent rise in the number of dengue cases in the state in the last few months.

From 148 cases reported in August this year, the figures rose to 212 till September 18.Briefing media persons at RD Wing, Lamphelpat on Sunday for an update on the dengue situation and preparedness status, minister Dr Ranjan emphasised the crucial need of community involvement in the fight against dengue, conceding that the Health Department alone cannot combat the disease effectively.

"We need the participation of everyone - households, localities, and communities.

Only together can we successfully fight dengue," he stressed.

While health officials and staff including Anganwadi workers and helpers have been actively working in tracing and monitoring cases and going strongly with IEC and source reduction programmes, the minister expressed concern over lack of cooperation from the public in certain areas.

In many instances, he said that health teams were denied access to inspect mosquito breeding grounds, with some even facing hostility.

Dr Ranjan then urged the public to fully cooperate with authorities, stressing the importance of eliminating potential breeding sites for mosquitoes, which are the primary carriers of the dengue virus.

He warned that breeding grounds are often found in unexpected places such as small ritual pots and flower pots, underscoring that any place with stagnant water can become a breeding site.

He also assured that the Health Department is following established protocols to combat dengue and will continue its efforts.

However, these measures will not be enough to contain the outbreak without the participation and cooperation of the community, he stated.

The minister then appealed to the public to contribute their mite in containing dengue and eliminate the mosquito breeding grounds.

He further urged everyone to be responsible citizens and added that with the support of the public, this threat can be eliminated.

The press meet was attended by top officials of Health & Family Welfare Department.

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