The Delhi government is taking action to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal chaired a meeting with officials to address the growing dengue issue and recommend preventive measures. Kejriwal asked hospitals to reserve beds for dengue patients and have enough medicine available.
The government has also issued a helpline number for vector-borne diseases. Patients will be able to contact doctors directly through this helpline starting next week. There will be a fine of Rs 1,000 for mosquito breeding in houses and Rs 5,000 for commercial premises. A 24-hour dengue control room will also be opened. Doctors have been advised not to prescribe blood-thinners during dengue treatment and patients are urged not to self-medicate.
The Education Directorate will ensure that all students wear full-sleeved uniforms to school to prevent mosquito bites. Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj mentioned that this year’s weather patterns have led to earlier cases of dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. Public awareness is important in preventing dengue, and the focus is on educating the public about transmission and protection.
Genome sequencing of the dengue virus found that most cases were of the more dangerous type 2. The Delhi Government urges caution, especially for school-going children who may be more susceptible. The Education Department will enforce a strict dress code in schools and create a dengue awareness homework project for children.
To restrict mosquito breeding, hospitals and other departments have been declared no-tolerance zones. The Health Department will provide daily updates on reported dengue cases, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will conduct door-to-door inspections of breeding grounds.
