Don't depend on MCC officials, maintain cleanliness in surroundings: Dr Srinivasa Kakkillaya

Mangaluru: A spurt in cases of dengue and malaria has been detected in Dakshina Kannada district since last few days owing to the peculiar weather conditions in the city and atleast four persons have died of dengue in the district so far.

In the backdrop of these deaths and increase in number of patients getting admitted to hospitals with viral fever, District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Ramakrishna Rao on Monday informed that the Health Department has deployed 300 health workers to conduct door-to-door visits to spread awareness among people in order to tackle the issue, He said that attention has been given to high-risk areas of Gujjarakere, Jeppu Mahakalipadpu, Arikerebailu, Mulihithlu, Kodialbail and Kadri Kambala.

Speaking to media persons Dr Srinivasa Kakkillaya, senior physician advised people to take maintain cleanliness in their surroundings rather than depending on MCC officials to take steps to check spread of dengue. He warned against stagnation of freshwater as these are breeding spots for dengue-mosquitoes.

As a precautionary measure he advised people to cover their body entirely and use mosquito repellents such as citronella oil and neem oil. Providing information on four types of viruses which cause dengue, Dr Kakkillaya said a person suffering from fever must visit a doctor if he notices red rashes all over the body and take a blood test.

“As the disease intensifies, one comes across vomiting, giddiness and stomach ache, arising a need for hospitalisation. Consistent monitoring is important,” he added.

MCC Commissioner B A Mohammed Nazir urged people to cooperate with officials in controlling dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

Deputy commissioner (revenue), Gayanthri Nayak, and health officials were present.