Delhi steps up dengue preparedness ahead of monsoon, reviews preventive measures

The Delhi government reviewed preparedness measures against dengue and other vector-borne diseases ahead of the monsoon season and directed all departments to strictly implement preventive measures.

Chairing a review meeting, Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said the government has strengthened surveillance, hospital preparedness, diagnostic facilities and vector-control measures to tackle dengue, malaria and chikungunya.

According to data shared during the meeting, Delhi reported 347 dengue cases, 87 malaria cases and 19 chikungunya cases till June 20 this year.

No deaths due to dengue or malaria have been reported so far, officials said.

Singh said public participation was crucial in preventing mosquito breeding and controlling the spread of vector-borne diseases.

“The Delhi government is fully prepared to tackle dengue and other vector-borne diseases. However, the fight against dengue cannot be won by government efforts alone. Every citizen must ensure that mosquito breeding does not take place in and around their homes,” he said.

Officials informed the minister that a network of 35 sentinel surveillance hospitals has been activated for monitoring cases, while government and private hospitals and laboratories have been directed to report cases in real time through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).

A control room is operational at the Directorate General of Health Services headquarters to coordinate response efforts and monitor the situation, they said.

The minister was also informed that civic agencies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council and Delhi Cantonment Board, have intensified vector-control activities.

Till June 20, more than 1.81 crore household and premises inspections were conducted to identify mosquito breeding sites, while over 1.97 lakh houses were sprayed. Nearly 38,500 notices were issued and more than 4,200 enforcement actions were taken in connection with mosquito-breeding violations, officials said.

Singh directed hospitals to maintain mosquito-free campuses, ensure timely reporting of cases and strengthen preparedness for the transmission season.

He said specialised training programmes for doctors, clinicians and healthcare workers were also being conducted to improve diagnosis and clinical management of dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

The minister said advisories had been issued to local bodies, educational institutions and other stakeholders to undertake preventive measures in their respective areas.

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He urged residents to prevent water stagnation in coolers, flower pots, buckets, tyres and other containers, observe a weekly “dry day” by cleaning and drying water storage containers, and seek immediate medical attention in case of fever or symptoms suggestive of dengue.

Singh said awareness campaigns were being carried out through schools, resident welfare associations, community organisations and healthcare workers to promote preventive measures and community participation.