Govt. intensifies efforts to fight rising vector, food-borne diseases

Andhra Pradesh health officials have launched intensified surveillance and preventive measures following a sharp rise in malaria, dengue, and food-borne illnesses. The government has mandated weekly 'Dry Days' to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and increased the distribution of medical supplies.
Why it matters
Public health interventions are crucial for managing seasonal disease outbreaks and preventing further strain on the state's medical infrastructure.
With the number of malaria, dengue, scurb typhus and water and food-borne cases rising sharply in the State, the Department of Health, Medical and Family Welfare has begun focussing on surveillance and preventive measures to contain the spread of these diseases.
According to a release, Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav on Sunday directed officials to identify areas reporting a rise in cases and called for intensified indoor residual spraying, distribution of mosquito nets and removal of mosquito breeding sites, particularly in malaria-prone tribal areas.
Officials have also been asked to identify waterlogged areas and strengthen vector-control measures in places where dengue cases have been reported.
According to the statement, as of August 30, Andhra Pradesh had recorded 7,895 malaria cases, up 27.9% from 6,172 during the same period last year. The increase has been reported from the districts of Alluri Sitarama Raju, Polavaram and Vizianagaram.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in