Amid the ongoing crises in the state, dengue has hit Manipur once again, resulting in one death in Imphal West district. Meanwhile, Health Minister Sapam Ranjan has called for collective efforts to control the spread of the infection.
During a conference held on Sunday at the RD Wing in Lamphel in Imphal West, Health Minister Sapam Ranjan stated that the concerned department and officials have been working to curb the spread of dengue. However, he emphasised that without community participation, controlling the infection will be difficult.
As of September, a total of 448 dengue cases have been reported - Imphal West has recorded the highest number of cases at 259, followed by 117 cases in Imphal East.
Last year, a total of 2,548 positive cases were reported, with Imphal West accounting for 1,639 cases, and Imphal East for 521 cases. However, no deaths were reported last year.
Minister Ranjan said that in August, 148 cases were reported, while the number rose to 230 by September 18. To control the spread, experts and concerned officials are taking various precautionary measures to eradicate dengue-carrying mosquitoes, he said.
He assured that the health department is ready to combat dengue and will increase manpower if necessary. In response to media questions, the minister explained that fogging is carried out within a 100-meter radius if an individual tests positive for dengue. However, he noted that fogging only kills mosquitoes and does not eliminate the eggs of ‘Culex’ mosquitoes (a species that spreads dengue).
The minister appealed to all sections of society to follow regulations, particularly by avoiding stagnant water in and around homes, including flower pots. He emphasized that eliminating mosquito breeding grounds is key to fighting dengue.
