Preventing Vector-Borne Diseases: PCMC’s Urgent Advisory to Residents

In response to a significant increase in vector-borne disease cases in Pimpri-Chinchwad, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has issued a crucial advisory to its citizens. The advisory, prompted by heavy rains leading to stagnant water in residential areas, aims to prevent the outbreak of diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya.

Taking Preventative Measures

The PCMC’s advisory emphasizes the importance of removing stagnant water in residential societies to eliminate potential breeding grounds for disease-carrying mosquitoes. While the PCMC is actively engaged in surveillance and containment efforts against vector-borne diseases, the advisory seeks community-level cooperation to ensure that mosquito breeding spots are effectively addressed.

Community Awareness

Dr. Laxman Gophane, the health officer of the PCMC, highlights that mosquito breeding can result in the spread of vector-borne diseases, particularly dengue, if preventive actions are not taken at the community level. The PCMC has undertaken various awareness initiatives in schools and housing societies to educate residents about these diseases. Over 70 public awareness banners have been installed throughout the PCMC area to reinforce the message.

Medical Reporting and Cautions

The PCMC has also held meetings with private practitioners, urging them to promptly report dengue cases to prevent public panic. Dr. Gophane explains that confirmed dengue cases are recorded for individuals testing positive through IgM ELISA tests and NS1-ELISA tests, while those testing positive via the non-ELISA NS1 antigen test are considered as suspected cases.

Dos and Don’ts: Preventive Measures

The advisory provides a list of dos and don’ts to help residents safeguard themselves against vector-borne diseases:

Dos:

1. Cover water tanks and containers to prevent mosquito breeding.
2. Regularly clean and dry coolers before refilling.
3. Properly dispose of unused containers and junk material.
4. Change water in flower vases, plant pots, and bird baths weekly.
5. Cover toilet seats when leaving the house for more than a week.
6. Use full-sleeved clothing and mosquito repellents to avoid mosquito bites.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid self-medication with over-the-counter medicines.
2. Seek medical attention if any symptoms develop.
3. Refrain from insisting on hospitalization for dengue fever without a doctor’s recommendation, as many patients may not require it.