MARGAO
As preparations gather pace for the commencement of the new fishing season, the Health Department has screened around 139 migrant workers who have reported to the Cutbona fishing jetty since July 25.
The health team has also distributed health kits to mechanised boat owners for use by their crew members while at sea.
Dr Chaitali Shirodkar of the Balli Primary Health Centre said the health team has been stationed at the Cutbona fishing jetty to screen migrant workers employed on mechanised fishing vessels.
“So far, we have screened around 139 migrant workers by collecting blood samples for malaria and dengue testing. The screening is being carried out daily as more workers arrive at the jetty,” Dr Shirodkar said.
She added that the screening drive would continue over the coming weeks, as a large number of migrant workers are yet to report for duty ahead of the new fishing season.
The initiative aims to ensure the health and well-being of migrant crew members and prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases, as well as cholera, during the fishing season.
