National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP), during a routine entomological study on Malaria, Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) found that the vector density—which refers to the number of mosquito population—was increasing over the months in Nagaland.
In a press release, NVBDCP, directorate of health and family welfare, state that the findings underscored growing public health concerns, as higher mosquito density significantly elevated the risk of transmission.
Additionally, NVBDCP said that favourable climatic conditions, the presence of breeding sites due to stagnant water, and inconsistent community compliance with preventive measures could be further contributing to the surge in vector populations.
It stated that the trend highlighted the urgent need to promote community awareness, carry out source reduction measures, and ensure early diagnosis and treatment to prevent further escalation of cases.
NVBDCP has appealed to the public all over the state to remove stagnant water from all the containers around the house like flower pot bases, empty vessels, coolers, tyres, buckets etc. once a week because mosquitoes breed in stagnant water and the eggs would hatch in a week.
Further, it advised the public to keep all water filled vessels and tanks tightly covered and throw out any rubbish lying around like plastic cups, old containers, tyres, coconut shells etc. and to check around the compound every week. It also discouraged rearing pigs near human dwellings as the JE virus infect and amplifies in pigs, which could be transmitted to humans.
NVBDCP encouraged sleeping under the mosquito net during day and night time especially pregnant women and children. People have been asked to immediately consult a doctor in case of high fever.
