The health department of the Chandigarh administration has issued a high alert and called for immediate action to prevent the spread of dengue and minimize illness and deaths as the rainy season arrived unexpectedly. The frequent rainfall in May has resulted in the accumulation of stagnant water in both manmade and natural sources in and around residential areas of Chandigarh, increasing the risk of mosquito breeding and the spread of vector-borne diseases, particularly dengue. The health department has urged all residents of Chandigarh to take precautionary measures to safeguard themselves from diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. Additionally, the administration has established free dengue testing facilities in various healthcare institutions across the city.
Due to unseasonal rainfall, Chandigarh has experienced an unexpected onset of the rainy season, resulting in water collection and stagnation. This phenomenon has created favorable breeding conditions for mosquitoes in both artificial and natural water sources, posing a significant risk of vector-borne diseases, particularly dengue.
The health department emphasizes the importance of following precautionary measures to prevent the spread of diseases. All residents of Chandigarh are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. This includes:
Eliminating stagnant water: Regularly check and remove any stagnant water in and around residential areas to prevent mosquito breeding sites.Use of mosquito repellents: Apply mosquito repellents on exposed skin or use mosquito nets while sleeping to minimize mosquito bites.
Wearing protective clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to cover the body and reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
Maintaining cleanliness: Keep surroundings clean and dispose of waste properly to avoid attracting mosquitoes.
To facilitate early detection and timely treatment, the administration has set up free dengue testing facilities in prominent healthcare institutions. Residents can avail themselves of dengue testing services at the PGIMER's Department of Virology, Government Medical College, Government Multi-Specialty Hospital in Sector 16, and other designated locations.
With the unseasonal onset of the rainy season in Chandigarh, the health department has issued a crucial alert to mitigate the risk of dengue outbreaks. The accumulation of stagnant water increases the possibility of mosquito breeding, leading to the spread of vector-borne diseases. Public awareness and adherence to precautionary measures play a vital role in preventing the transmission of dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. The availability of free dengue testing facilities aims to facilitate early diagnosis and prompt treatment. By working together and taking proactive measures, residents can minimize the impact of vector-borne diseases and ensure the well-being of the community.