THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
In a bid to strengthen public health measures during the monsoon season, Bardez Deputy Collector Kabir Shirgaonkar has stressed the importance of panchayats working closely with health officials before initiating fogging activities to control vector-borne diseases.
The directive was issued during a comprehensive review meeting held at the government complex, Mapusa, addressing the rise in dengue and malaria cases typically observed during this period.
Shirgaonkar highlighted the need for Village Water and Sanitation Committees in all panchayats to convene regularly to raise awareness about vector-borne diseases.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to curb the spread of diseases like dengue and malaria, which have seen an uptick in the region.
Health officials from all the health centres across Bardez attended the meeting, presenting ongoing efforts to combat these diseases.
Despite the availability of fogging services through health centres, it was noted that many residents prefer using personal fogging machines.
However, health experts cautioned that this practice might not effectively control mosquito breeding.
"Improper fogging can cause mosquitoes to simply relocate rather than eliminate them," a health officer warned.
Concerns were also raised about some hotels and wards in panchayats using non-recommended chemicals for fogging.
Dr Roshan Nazareth, Health Officer at Candolim Primary Health Centre, highlighted the public health risks associated with unauthorised chemical use, particularly for the elderly and those with respiratory issues.
"It is crucial that proper methods are employed in fogging to avoid health hazards," Dr Nazareth stressed.
In response, Deputy Collector Shirgaonkar assured that necessary instructions would be communicated to the relevant authorities to ensure safe and effective fogging practices.
He also reiterated the importance of Village Water and Sanitation Committees meeting regularly to enhance community awareness about vector-borne diseases.
Additionally, he advised local bodies to inspect wells in their areas “ common mosquito breeding grounds “ and implement appropriate anti-larval measures.
The Deputy Collector further directed that health cards be made mandatory for employees of contractors.
Effectiveness of anti-container drives was also discussed during the meeting.
Meanwhile, at least 95 dengue cases have been recorded by 6 health centres in Bardez between April and July.
The latest reports from health centres in Bardez for the period from April to July reveal 27 cases of dengue at the Mapusa Urban Health Centre, 19 cases at Candolim PHC, eight at Porvorim, five at Siolim and nine at Colvale Primary Health Centre.
The Saligao Primary Health Centre (PHC) has reported 27 dengue cases between June and July.
The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are urging the public to follow health guidelines to prevent further spread of these diseases.
