Nagaland launched a statewide anti-dengue and malaria drive ahead of monsoon, urging preventive action against mosquito breeding
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DIMAPUR — Ahead of the monsoon season, Nagaland Health and Family Welfare department has launched a statewide pre-monsoon preventive drive against vector-borne diseases, including dengue and malaria, amid growing concerns over mosquito breeding during the rainy months.
In a press release, the state National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) informed that the initiative aims to strengthen community participation and reduce mosquito breeding sources before the onset of monsoon, when the risk of disease transmission usually increases.
As part of the campaign, individuals, households, village councils, urban local bodies, churches, educational institutions, colonies and community-based organisations have been urged to actively inspect their surroundings and eliminate conditions that encourage mosquito breeding.
It stated that stagnant water remains the primary breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, and advised the public to regularly clear clogged drains and gutters, empty unused containers, tyres, flower pots and water storage vessels, and maintain cleanliness in and around homes and public places.
Citizens have also been encouraged to identify sanitation problem areas requiring sustained intervention and ensure that no stagnant water accumulates around residential areas during the rainy season.
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Stressing the importance of community awareness and collective action, the department stated that early preventive measures during the pre-monsoon period could significantly reduce mosquito density and disease transmission.
People experiencing bleeding symptoms such as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool have been advised to seek immediate medical attention.
It cautioned against self-medication and advised the public to avoid medicines such as ibuprofen and aspirin, as they may increase the risk of bleeding in dengue patients.
Residents were also urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites by using mosquito nets, repellents, protective clothing and wire mesh on doors and windows.
The advisory further warned against relying solely on Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) for dengue diagnosis, stating that false positives are possible.
It maintained that confirmation should be obtained from designated sentinel hospitals, namely Naga Hospital Authority Kohima and District Hospital Dimapur.