Mangaluru: Even though the number of malaria patients is reducing in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, nonetheless the twin districts have secured the first and second places respectively on the state level.
The main reasons behind the spread of the disease is the higher number of migrant workers from other states working in both the districts and an environment conducive for the breeding of mosquitoes. The main reason for this is also the backwaters of the sea which help in mosquito propagation. DK and Udupi districts are followed by Koppal, Bagalkot, Yadgiri and Raichur districts.
Since 1990, the construction activity in Mangaluru has increased tremendously and hence the number of migrant workers also increased. The diseases being carried by the migrant workers began to spread to others through mosquitoes. Besides, the stagnant water at construction sites is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, informs corporation health officer Dr Manjayya Shetty and Udupi Malaria Control officer Dr Prashant.
Intensity has reduced
Although Mangaluru city stands on the top regarding malaria intensity, the number of patients in reality has decreased in comparison to last year. 814 malaria cases were identified officially up till June 2019, but based on the QBC test, it could cross 1,500. Immediate result is possible through QBC test. Presently, this facility is available only in Mangaluru city limits, informs DK district Malaria Control Officer Dr Naveen Kumar.
Why more in Mangaluru?
Since the humidity in Mangalurean environment is higher, it helps in the propagation of mosquitoes.
Maaria cases in Mangaluru have been documented based on QBC test according to which, 342 cases in January (431 last year), 182 in February (281), March 180 (329), April 117 (292), May 106 (372), and 166 in June (741) have been recorded. Udupi district has recorded 35 cases of malaria up till now in the current year.
