Kerala is set to introduce a comprehensive disease calendar and form an expert panel to better manage and contain the spread of communicable diseases, Health Minister K Muraleedharan announced on Tuesday.
Reason for Rise in Diseases
Speaking to the media, Muraleedharan attributed the recent increase in communicable diseases to lapses in pre-monsoon cleanliness drives. He explained that the Assembly elections, which followed closely after local body elections, disrupted the scheduled cleanliness campaigns, leading to a surge in vector-borne and water-borne illnesses.
Disease Calendar and Expert Panel
The proposed disease calendar will map out the seasonal occurrence of various diseases, enabling health authorities to prepare and respond proactively. The expert panel, comprising epidemiologists, public health experts, and medical professionals, will advise on containment strategies and coordinate with local bodies.
Kerala has faced several health scares in recent years, including Nipah virus outbreaks and rising cases of dengue and leptospirosis. The new measures aim to strengthen the state's preparedness and response mechanisms.
The minister urged the public to cooperate with health departments and maintain hygiene to prevent the spread of diseases.
