Hyderabad: In a bid to curb the spread of Dengue fever, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has underscored the vital role of community involvement in disease prevention. This emphasis was highlighted by GHMC officials at an awareness programme held at the Film Club Venkateswara Colony on Thursday, July 25.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, the GHMC Gadwal Vijayalakshmi highlighted the critical importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness to prevent the proliferation of dengue. The event was specifically organised for students who have been identified as volunteers in the dengue prevention campaign, aiming to leverage their outreach to the community. The GHMC Mayor urged these student volunteers to educate their communities about the significance of cleanliness and the dangers of stagnant water, which serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. She advised that residents should ensure water does not accumulate in old coolers, tyres, or plant pots. To reinforce this effort, the Mayor suggested designating Fridays as “dry days” where locals actively search for and eliminate potential sources of standing water.
During her address, the Mayor also called upon school teachers to integrate lessons on cleanliness and mosquito prevention into their curriculum. This, she believes, will help instil the importance of these measures in students from a young age. While the GHMC has implemented extensive measures to control mosquito populations, the official stressed that public participation is paramount to the success of these initiatives. Community engagement and proactive measures by residents are essential components in the fight against dengue.
According to a report by the Telangana government’s Department of Public Health and Family Welfare, there was a notable increase in dengue cases in June, rising from 113 cases in May. However, this represents a decrease from the previous year, which saw 188 cases in May 2023 and 284 cases in June 2023. This decline is attributed to enhanced preventive measures and increased public awareness. In contrast, the incidence of Malaria has seen a reduction. The state reported 21 cases of Malaria in May of this year, dropping to 9 cases in June. This is a significant decrease compared to the 29 cases reported in May and 14 cases in June of the previous year. The GHMC’s ongoing efforts, combined with active community participation, are pivotal in controlling the spread of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. By fostering a culture of cleanliness and awareness, Hyderabad aims to significantly reduce the incidence of these diseases and protect public health.
