PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
The Health department has formed a separate team of officials to inspect for mosquito larvae at various commercial establishments including hospitals, schools and others in Dehradun. This decision follows a recent report highlighting stagnant water in basements across Dehradun, particularly at the Gandhi Shatabdi Eye Hospital. In response, Health secretary R Rajesh Kumar issued a show-cause notice to the Dehradun chief medical officer and the chief medical superintendent of the hospital and formed a committee to address these concerns.
It is pertinent to mention that there has been a notable spike in dengue cases recently. During the monsoon season, an increase in the chances of dengue cases has usually been observed, making waterlogging situations, especially in hospital basements, a significant concern for public health.
The additional CMO and District Surveillance Officer (DSO), Dr Pradeep Rana, stated that in light of the issue at the hospital, the Health department has taken immediate action to prevent further dengue cases. He informed that a team has been created, including the district malaria officer and other concerned officials, to inspect commercial establishments for dengue larvae. Additionally, Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) workers and volunteers have already been tasked with conducting surveys for dengue larvae in residential areas.
The newly formed team will inspect commercial establishments, including schools and hospitals, to ensure they are not experiencing waterlogging issues that could lead to mosquito breeding or increase the chances of dengue larvae. He said that if waterlogging is found during the inspection at commercial establishments, the information will be reported directly to the municipal authorities. Further, if larvae are discovered in any commercial establishment, initial warnings and prevention tips will be provided. Should there be repeated instances of larvae found, strict action will be enforced against that particular establishment, he said.
Rana further emphasised that August and September are critical months for the spread of dengue. Regarding this, they have asked volunteers and ASHA workers to remain vigilant during this period to help prevent dengue cases.People should consult a doctor if they suspect they have dengue, rather than relying on self-medication, Rana added.
