ITANAGAR, Sep 30: Arunachal Pradesh Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge on Wednesday directed officials to strengthen surveillance, testing and preventive measures in view of the recent rise in dengue cases in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR) and adjoining areas.
Wahge held a review meeting with Health Department officials to assess the situation and discuss measures to contain further spread of the vector-borne disease. He stressed the need for rigorous testing, early detection and close monitoring of cases.
The meeting also focused on strengthening public awareness, source reduction and vector-control measures, besides improving coordination between the Health Department, Itanagar Municipal Corporation (IMC) and other concerned departments and local authorities.
The minister directed officials to ensure timely response and necessary healthcare support to affected persons and maintain close surveillance in the affected areas to prevent the spread of dengue to other regions.
The Health and Family Welfare Department is carrying out surveillance, testing and case detection while coordinating awareness, vector-control and source-reduction activities at the community level.
The IMC is also conducting information, education and communication (IEC) activities in its respective wards and disseminating dengue awareness messages through its garbage collection vehicles.
Wahge appealed to citizens to remain alert and take necessary precautions, including avoiding stagnant water around homes and workplaces, keeping water containers covered and maintaining clean surroundings. He also advised people to use mosquito repellents or nets and wear full-sleeved clothing.
The minister urged anyone developing fever or dengue-like symptoms to consult a doctor promptly and avoid self-medication.
“There is no need for panic,” Wahge said, stressing that timely medical attention, appropriate precautions and collective community action can help prevent the spread of dengue.