Amidst Rising Dengue cases, Health Secretary reviews preparedness on Dengue in Delhi

Due to reporting of high density of vector breeding from various areas across Delhi, source reduction activity to eliminate the mosquito breeding was identified as a priority activity to reduce the risk of transmission as no vaccine is available for Dengue. This was highlighted since there does not exist any specific drug for treatment of the disease. The DGHS was requested to ensure availability of adequate stock of NS1 test kits for Dengue in all Central Government hospitals. Secretary (HFW) also suggested to conduct training of doctors of private hospitals in Delhi on Dengue case management.

Creating awareness among the communities for prevention and control of Dengue emerged as a focus area during the meeting. It was suggested that targeted multi-media IEC campaigns need to be undertaken to highlight the need for prevention from Dengue. It was also suggested that RWAs could be involved to create awareness among the residents.

The officials from Delhi Government mentioned that special awareness programmes are being held in the schools, such as rallies, etc., to educate the children on Dengue. It was suggested that activities such as these could be replicated all over to create widespread awareness. It was also decided to seek cooperation of CPWD and the Foreign Missions for control of mosquito breeding inside their Missions.

In the first fortnight of August, 277 cases of dengue were reported in Delhi, highest number for the month recorded in the last three years.