The health department in Dahod District, Gujarat, is taking proactive measures against the Chandipura virus, which is a type of encephalitis. This comes after two tragic deaths last year, prompting authorities to start preventive actions before the monsoon season. The virus is spread by sand flies and primarily affects children aged 0 to 16. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, and seizures. In response to last year’s cases, the health department has begun a second round of spraying the insecticide Malathion in vulnerable areas. This initiative aims to eliminate the breeding sites of sand flies, which thrive in damp conditions, particularly in unfinished houses and animal shelters. Health officials, led by Dr. Uday Tilawat, the chief health officer of Dahod, have been coordinating these efforts. The spraying is crucial to prevent the virus from spreading during the upcoming monsoon, which could create ideal conditions for the sand flies to reproduce.
During last year’s monsoon, three cases of the Chandipura virus were reported in the district, resulting in two fatalities. These cases involved children who had travelled from other regions. The health department is working diligently to ensure that such incidents do not occur again. As part of the community awareness campaign, officials request residents to seal any cracks in their homes and cooperate with health workers during the spraying operations.
Additionally, the Gujarat government has implemented extensive surveillance in areas where the virus has been detected. Over 53,999 homes have been monitored, and the health department has conducted dusting operations with Malathion powder in 746,927 unfinished houses. Schools and anganwadis (community childcare centres) in affected areas have also received treatment to protect children from potential infections. Health Minister Rushikesh Patel reported that no new cases have been recorded recently, and the situation is under control. Despite the decrease in cases, vigilance remains crucial as the health department continues to educate the public on prevention methods. They urge residents to take necessary precautions and support health workers in their efforts to combat this virus.
The health department is hopeful that these measures will ensure the safety of children and prevent any future outbreaks. The proactive approach taken by the authorities reflects their commitment to public health and safety during the monsoon season. Community involvement is key in these efforts, as local cooperation can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the health interventions. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in keeping their surroundings clean and safe. Overall, the health alert in Dahod serves as a reminder of the importance of preventive measures in safeguarding community health.
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