Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has launched a thorough surveillance program to address the increase in dengue cases in the state.
The Health Department has instructed the District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners to identify areas with high incidences of dengue cases over the past five years and to conduct detailed surveys and mapping to control the disease.
State Health Secretary Shalini Pandit has issued orders for immediate action. The objective is to identify dengue hotspots and implement preventive measures to limit the disease’s spread.
The outbreak of dengue and malaria during the monsoon and subsequent periods has prompted the department to urge the district administration to stay alert, take necessary measures, and assess the availability of an adequate number of volunteers, diagnostic kits, and medicines to address the situation.
Furthermore, officials have been instructed to prioritize timely testing and effective treatment, as well as to facilitate swift referrals to advanced healthcare facilities when needed.
In addition, Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at the district and block levels have been directed to be prepared to handle any critical situations. Hospitals have been asked to establish dedicated dengue wards and ensure protection against mosquito breeding. District Collectors have been advised to enforce a ‘Dry Day’ once a week as part of measures to control the spread of dengue cases in the state.
Notably, the state has recorded over 200 dengue cases so far, with Khurda district being the most severely affected, accounting for more than 30 cases. The capital city of Bhubaneswar has emerged as a hotspot for dengue cases, representing a significant 50% of the total patients reported in Khurda district.
