In Patan district, health authorities have taken significant steps to combat vector-borne diseases as the monsoon season approaches. This year, only one case of dengue has been reported so far, compared to 26 cases at the end of June in 2024. The district is known to be sensitive to malaria, with 24 cases reported in 2023, but this number dropped to 17 in 2024, marking a 29% decrease. So far in 2025, there has only been one malaria case reported as well. This proactive approach aims to keep the community safe from diseases like dengue and malaria.
The health teams have been conducting house-to-house inspections for fever surveillance and vector control. They have been applying the drug temephos to open containers of water and using diflubenzuron in stagnant water to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. In June, the first round of house-to-house vector control operations surveyed 352,718 households, finding mosquito larvae in 1,770 containers. These were treated or emptied to prevent mosquito breeding. This initiative is ongoing to reduce mosquito populations and control diseases.
The district has established 13 vector control teams in urban areas, which are working diligently to manage breeding sites and educate the community. These teams are active in towns like Patan, Harij, Chanasma, Radhanpur, and Siddhpur. The teams have been focusing on areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed, such as discarded tires, plastic containers, and waste. Health education campaigns are also being carried out to raise awareness about preventing mosquito breeding.
Community participation is crucial in these efforts. Residents are urged to dispose of stagnant water, rubbish, and old tires around their homes. They should also be vigilant about preventing mosquito breeding in bird baths and flowerpots. To protect themselves from mosquito bites, people are advised to wear long sleeves, use insect repellent, and keep doors and windows closed during peak mosquito activity times in the morning and evening.
If any cases of malaria or dengue are reported in a locality, health teams will increase surveillance and control efforts, including fogging in 50 nearby homes to eliminate adult mosquitoes. This rigorous approach demonstrates the commitment of Patan’s health authorities to protect the community from vector-borne diseases, ensuring that the residents can enjoy the monsoon season safely. By cooperating and following health guidelines, the citizens can help to keep these diseases at bay.
In conclusion, the health department’s proactive measures and community involvement are essential in controlling vector-borne diseases in Patan district. Continued monitoring and education will play a key role in keeping the population safe and healthy during the monsoon season.
Leave a Reply