The latest data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare shows a total of 257 cases of dengue registered in Goa from January to December 17, 2017, as compared to 150 cases registered in 2016. This shows a 71% rise in dengue cases in the state. Fortunately no deaths have been reported due to this vector-borne disease in 2017. It is a general exercise for the authorities concerned to ask the people to take proper care while storing unused barrels, coconut shells and discarded tyres in the rain which are potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes. However it is pertinent to note that there could be several water-fountains in the state which are non-functional. During the monsoon these fountains get filled with rain water which latter becomes stagnant. This accumulated water could take several weeks to dry up depending on the quantity. The large quantity of stagnant water in the non-functional water-fountains becomes a fertile breeding site for mosquitoes which could, in a big way, contribute to the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria in the state. These water-fountains need to be either made functional or alternatively fitted with a proper outlet so that the rain water drains out and does not accumulate.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
