Bhubaneswar: In view of the monsoon, Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has written to Secretaries of various departments to take steps in order to curb the spread of dengue and other vector-borne diseases in the state.

"During the monsoon and post-monsoon period, outbreak of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) such as dengue and malaria is likely to increase. Further, occasional spells of rainfall can also result in an unprecedented case rise. Moreover, dengue possesses a significant public health challenge due to its rapid spread and potential severity. Addressing dengue requires coordinated efforts at every level. Though dengue was known to be a mostly urban centric disease, now it has been observed that rural areas are also affected due to rapid urbanization and population movement. Most vector-borne diseases can be controlled if appropriate preventive measures are undertaken collectively at the district level," the Chief Secretary wrote in the letter.

"Timely control and prevention measures are of paramount importance to reduce morbidity and mortality due to dengue and other VBDs. The role of all line departments is crucial in this regard in mobilizing their teams working at the community level, to supplement the efforts of the Health & FW Department in the prevention and control of dengue," the official wrote and mentioned roles and responsibilities of different departments.

The Chief Secretary requested the Secretaries to take all necessary steps through their field functionaries for the prevention and control of dengue and other VBDs in the state.

Meanwhile, dengue situation in Rourkela worsened with detection of 10 cases in a day. By July 11, as many as 516 cases were detected in the state with maximum 134 cases from Khordha, followed by Balangir with 71 cases and Sundargarh with 43 cases, said Nilakantha Mishra, Public Health Director.

This apart, cases of malaria have also increased. Students returning to hostels from their homes are being tested for malaria. Many of them testing positive for malaria are asymptomatic. On the other hand, parents of students are being advised to remain aware regarding conjunctivitis. If affected, students should not go to schools and stay in isolation, said Mishra.