Bhubaneswar: Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling chaired a special review meeting at the State Secretariat to discuss the current situation of waterborne and vector-borne diseases in the state. The meeting deliberated on measures to control diseases such as diarrhoea, jaundice, malaria, and dengue.
Health and Family Welfare Secretary Aswathy S apprised the Health Minister that the state government has distributed long-lasting insecticidal-treated bed nets in malaria-prone districts, including Boudh, Gajapati, Kalahandi, Koraput, Kandhamal, Malkangiri, Rayagada, and Mayurbhanj. Additionally, insecticide spraying is underway in 12 districts.
According to the release issued by the Information and Public Relations Department, dengue cases were reported in Balasore, Khordha, and Sundargarh last year. To address this, the Minister directed that proactive measures be taken to prevent and control malaria and dengue, including widespread public awareness campaigns, diagnosis, and treatment.
As of June 23, a total of 31,449 dengue tests have been conducted, with 188 testing positive. The Health Minister has directed that more dengue tests and appropriate treatment be continued.
The meeting also reviewed the state’s maternal mortality ratio and infant mortality rate. The Minister emphasised the need for monitoring these indicators on a priority basis. He expressed satisfaction with the improvement in the diarrhoea situation in six districts.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Departmental Secretary, Special Secretary, Public Health Director, Director of Health, Director of Family Welfare, Additional Director (Public Health), and Additional Director (Vector Borne Diseases).
