In the backdrop of a rise in the number of malaria and dengue cases, the Thane Municipal Corporation in association with Zee 24 taas on Saturday organised a discussion to raise awareness about the vector-borne diseases. The event saw presence of health officials from BMC, Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) and a representative from the Indian Medical Association (IMA).
Setting the tone for the programme, Mangala Bhomar, health officer from BMC, said, "Eradicating Dengue and Malaria is a far-off thought. We are currently focussing on precautions to bring down the instances of the diseases."
Dr Uday Nirgulkar, Editor of Zee 24 taas said the channel has taken this initiative for the sole purpose of raising awareness. "With such huge population, it is impossible for the municipality to keep an eye on every nook and corner of the city. The hot and humid climate helps mosquitoes breed."
Nirgulkar added, "This is just a step to make the city see fewer cases of fatal illnesses and is a part of numerous other initiatives taken by us. In the past, we have conducted eye donation drives, collaborated with the police to launch a do not drink and drive initiative, initiated rainwater harvesting, having eco friendly Ganesha and conservation of birds projects."
Stagnation of water leads to mosquito breeding, said Ram Kendre, health officer, TMC. "Residents should ensure that all vessels and sapling pots do not have water accumulated for more than four days. Terraces should be clean and no plastic bottles, shoes, empty tyres should be left out in the open. Residents should lead various awareness movements as well."
Apart from TMC and BMC officials, Leeladhar Mhaske from KDMC shared his experience on the issue. Stressing on the danger of self medication, Dr Avinash Waghle, president of IMA Thane chapter, said they often find people visiting when matters get complicated. He said, "Early detection helps cure any illness."
Later, the audience interacted with the speakers and cleared many doubts about the diseases. At the end, everyone agreed that civic bodies alone couldn't fight malaria and dengue and citizens must do their bit.
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