Dengue threat looming

It took a heavy toll of human lives six years ago when neither the city fathers nor the doctors were aware of how to contain or manage it. But things improved in the following years with people in general becoming a lot more conscious about the problem. Drive against the aedes mosquito gained momentum and it appeared that the campaign against dengue was making progress. But after all these years it seems the preparedness to face the menace has slackened. There is no visible anti-mosquito drive and people are apparently oblivious of the measures like not allowing water logging in flower vases or any empty container that they have to adopt to stop breeding of aedes mosquito.

Most hospitals are not really well equipped to manage the disease which can turn fatal if timely medical support is not provided to the patients.

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So the fight against dengue which will ensure that it doesn't assume menacing proportions must be conducted at three levels. The City Corporation has to launch a vigorous anti-mosquito drive, targeting the areas known as breeding grounds of aedes mosquito. Sadly, we witnessed in the past that this important task was never performed with due urgency. Then there is the need for awareness-building which proved to be effective in the past. Both the electronic and print media have a role to play in his respect.

Finally, the hospitals should open dengue units to handle the situation, lest it turned worse. But there is, of course, no reason to be panicked; what we need is sound planning, better sanitation and prompt delivery of medical services in case of affliction on the basis of which the situation can be tackled.

It is obvious that dengue visits us almost annually. The planners should concentrate on how this painful malady can be eradicated, and for the time-being steps will have to be taken to prevent it from spreading.