Madurai Corporation Deploys 530 Contract Workers in Major Mosquito Control Drive
In a proactive move to curb mosquito-borne diseases ahead of the critical summer months, the Madurai Municipal Corporation has hired 530 individuals on a contract basis. This significant workforce will be dedicated to conducting thorough inspections, identifying potential breeding grounds, and eliminating mosquito hotspots across the entire city.
Targeting a Reduction in Disease Cases
Assistant Health Officer Abhishek provided context, noting that the city recorded only 80 registered cases of mosquito-related illnesses last year. "This year, the corporation aims to reduce the number further," he stated emphatically. He explained that the newly appointed domestic breeding checkers will remain active throughout the city, even during off-season periods, to maintain vigilance and prevent outbreaks.
The health department anticipates a potential spike in cases during the summer and is conducting preemptive inspections to identify and address breeding sites before they become problematic. "So far, we have identified around 80 spots where mosquito breeding could be a major issue and are being regularly monitored," Abhishek added, highlighting the ongoing surveillance efforts.
Comprehensive Door-to-Door Operations
The mosquito control teams will engage in extensive door-to-door activities, which include raising public awareness, clearing stagnant water, and spraying mosquito repellent. Each team is tasked with visiting 40 to 50 households daily, operating six days a week. They will meticulously check for common breeding sources such as stagnant water in flower pots, discarded coconut shells, and other containers, ensuring these are promptly cleared.
"The teams will inspect the collectorate, all five corporation zonal offices, and administrative buildings for fogging and clear any mosquito breeding grounds on Thursday," Abhishek detailed, indicating a structured approach that includes key public institutions.
Serious Focus on Malaria and Dengue
Illnesses like malaria and dengue are being treated with utmost seriousness in this campaign. As a preventive measure, all fever patients will be screened for mosquito-borne diseases to enable early detection and intervention. This comprehensive strategy underscores the corporation's commitment to safeguarding public health and minimizing the impact of vector-borne threats in the region.
