NVBDCP intensifies dengue prevention drive

DIMAPUR, MAY 11 (NPN): State National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) under the Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DoH&FW) has launched a statewide pre-monsoon preventive drive against vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria to strengthen community participation and reduce mosquito breeding ahead of the monsoon season.
In a press release, the NVBDCP appealed to individuals, households, village councils, urban local bodies, churches, community-based organisations, educational institutions and colonies to actively inspect their homes and surrounding areas for conditions that encourage mosquito breeding.
The department urged the public to prevent water stagnation, which serves as the primary breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes responsible for transmitting dengue. Citizens have been advised to regularly clear clogged drains and gutters, empty and clean unused containers, flower pots, tyres and water storage vessels, and maintain cleanliness in and around households and public places. The department also called upon the communities to assess local sanitation conditions and identify areas requiring focused and sustained intervention. According to the department, community awareness and collective action remain crucial in preventing the spread of vector-borne diseases. It informed that early preventive measures during the pre-monsoon period could significantly reduce mosquito density and disease transmission.
Further, the department has issued a list of precautions amid the dengue surge. People experiencing symptoms have been advised to take adequate rest, remain hydrated and use paracetamol or acetaminophen for fever. Individuals have also been urged to immediately consult a doctor if they experienced bleeding symptoms such as bleeding from the gums, nose, urine or blood in the stool.
NVBDCP also advised the public to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using mosquito nets, wearing clothing that minimizes skin exposure, using mosquito repellents during the daytime, and installing wire mesh on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes.
The department has cautioned against self-medication and advised people to avoid taking ibuprofen or aspirin, as those medicines could increase the risk of bleeding. It also urged the public not to allow stagnant water to accumulate around homes.
On dengue testing, the department warned that rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) may produce false-positive results and advised people to confirm diagnoses at sentinel hospitals such as Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) and District Hospital Dimapur. NVBDCP stated that the central government and the Indian Council of Medical Research do not recommend the use of RDTs for dengue diagnosis.
NVBDCP appealed to all stakeholders and the public to extend full cooperation and actively participate in the preventive drive to ensure a healthier and safer environment for all.