Bhubaneswar, (Orissa Today), July 12: Amid a surge in dengue and malaria cases, Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has instructed 10 departments to collaborate on efforts to prevent and control these vector-borne diseases (VBDs). Highlighting the significant public health challenge posed by dengue and malaria due to their rapid spread and severity, the chief secretary has urged the departments to take proactive measures through their field operations.
“Timely prevention and control measures are critical to reducing the impact of dengue and other VBDs on public health,” Ahuja emphasized in his directive. He underscored the essential role of all departments in mobilizing their teams at the community level to complement the efforts of the Health and Family Welfare Department. Ahuja stressed that coordinated actions at every level are essential to effectively address the challenges posed by dengue.
According to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), Odisha has reported 488 dengue cases, up from 288 cases reported by June 26. Khurda district has recorded the highest number of dengue cases, totaling 130, with 33 cases detected in the last 24 hours alone. Bhubaneswar, part of Khurda district, has reported 78 cases.
Similarly, Odisha leads the national tally with 12,363 malaria cases reported in the first five months of the year, followed by Chhattisgarh with 10,114 cases.
Chief Secretary directs departments to combat dengue and malaria in Odisha
