As many as 79 cases of chikungunya have been reported in the Capital, till now. Generally considered a non-fatal disease, chikungunya is caused by a virus.
In view of last year's massive outbreak of chikungunya in the Capital, the Municipal Corporations of Delhi are taking preventive measures well in advance. On Tuesday, the south civic body issued an advisory, calling upon educational institutions, workplaces, Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), and market associations to not allow water to stagnate in their respective areas.
As many as 79 cases of chikungunya have been reported in the Capital, till now. Generally considered a non-fatal disease, chikungunya is caused by a virus.
The season for vector-borne diseases in Delhi starts from mid-July and generally lasts till November-end. According to the report prepared by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), a total of 24 cases of dengue have been reported this season till now. The number, however, was restricted to only seven last year.
Stressing on the need to eliminate mosquitoes, South Corporation Commissioner P K Goel said: "Since there is no specific treatment for dengue and chikungunya, prevention is the only way forward." He then directed his staffers to appoint nodal officers in every department to monitor steps taken to control mosquito-breeding. He further asked his officers to write to heads of educational institutions and workplaces to not allow collection of water on their premises.
According to officials, various agencies in the health sector have reported mosquito breeding in different parts of the city, including in government buildings. Mosquitoes breed mainly in water in coolers, uncovered storage containers, old tyres, etc. During monsoon, the possibility of accumulation of water becomes high.
"Officers must coordinate with heads of schools, colleges, and other such institutions to ensure overhead and other water tanks and containers are covered with lids and air vents are covered with wire mesh," Goel said.
He also asked his staffers to write to these institutions and request them to let corporation's domestic breeding checkers (DBCs) in, so that they can inspect their overhead tanks. He further urged people to buy National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)-designed coolers, which prevent mosquito breeding.
Fine fact
The Delhi Municipal Corporation by-laws, 1975, on malaria and other vector-borne diseases provide for action in case of failure to take specified prevented measures. The failure is punishable with a fine up to Rs 500.
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