Health Dept launches micro-planning for Dengue prevention as cases surge across districts

The state health department has intensified efforts to control dengue through a comprehensive micro-planning strategy across all districts. Traditionally, the dengue season was believed to begin in the third week of July and last until November. However, due to inconsistent rainfall patterns and fluctuating temperatures in recent years, cases of mosquito-borne diseases have been reported year-round. To address this, the health department has focused on early surveillance to curb the outbreak from the beginning of the year.

As of February 28, the state has reported 424 confirmed dengue cases, with Howrah leading at 70 cases, followed by Murshidabad with 51 cases. Other affected districts include North 24 Parganas (45 cases), West Bardhaman (36 cases), and Malda (33 cases). These districts also saw the highest number of dengue cases last year. Health officials have sent detailed guidelines to district health officers, stressing the importance of identifying stagnant water sources, which are the primary breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The health department has outlined several preventive measures, including drone surveillance to locate and eliminate stagnant water in difficult-to-reach areas. Authorities are also conducting door-to-door surveys to identify breeding sites in homes and public spaces. The state has launched an awareness campaign to educate the public about preventing mosquito breeding, and hospitals have been instructed to remain prepared to treat dengue patients throughout the year. The initiative is expected to continue until November, with constant monitoring and preventive actions being prioritized.