Daijiworld Media Network- Udupi (NDF)

Udupi, May 26: According to a statement released by District Malaria Control official Dr Premanand, the constant attempts made by the Health department to control the spread of dengue, have resulted in fewer cases of dengue reported this summer compared to the previous years. According to the information rendered by a doctor at the review meeting of the Health department conducted by deputy commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis on May 24, the door-to-door awareness campaigns have yielded good results with only 36 cases being reported till May 21 this year, fewer than in previous years.

Five cases were recorded in Udupi city, 22 in rural areas, four in Karkala, five in Kundapur and Nittur has had no cases reported thus far. As many as 383 cases were reported last year. As the rain has been falling at intervals this year, the expected increase in mosquitoes has not been witnessed. This is because people have been educated about the ill effects of allowing water to stagnate and about the various diseases caused by mosquitoes. The door-to-door campaigns were carried out by Anganwadi workers and male and female health workers.

The night shelter maintained for the homeless close to Beedinagudde theatre has been in good condition and helped prevent the homeless from contracting the disease. The DC has also issued orders for such a shelter to be constructed in Kundapur. The DC has also issued instructions to spread awareness about the use of mosquito nets and has ordered contractors at construction sites to ensure that water does not stagnate in those places.

Workers from other districts will also be screened for diseases. The DC has said that the chief officers and health inspectors have been carrying out their work efficiently in this regard. District health and family welfare officer, Dr Rohini and others were present at the meeting.