Ahead of monsoon Centre asks states to launch public campaigns to curb vector breeding

NEW DELHI: Ahead of onset of monsoons, the Centre called upon states to launch 'Jan Abhiyaans' or public campaigns with 'log bhaagidari' (people's participation) to enthuse and engage citizens and communities to ensure there is no mosquito breeding in the neighborhoods.

While reviewing the preparedness for prevention and control of vector-borne diseases in 13 high-burden states, health minister Mansukh Mandaviya urged people to start with own homes and communities to ensure there is no vector breeding in neighborhoods.

"Log Bhagidaari" pivotal for launching Jan Abhiyaan for vector control and elimination. Let us start with our own homes and communities to ensure there is no vector breeding in our neighbourhoods," Mandaviya said.

The 13 high burden states include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Punjab Rajasthan Tripura, Delhi, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha & Tamil Nadu.

Underlining the issue of vector control and elimination is cross-cutting and requires close collaboration with several other departments, Mandaviya exhorted the states to ensure inter-sectoral coordination and work closely with other related departments such as for tribal welfare, urban development for enforcement of civic laws, rural development for construction of pucca houses under PMAY-G, water and sanitation, animal husbandry etc.

States were also advised to involve Ayushman Bharat- Health & Wellness Centres for notification of cases, case management, ensuring community engagement. They were also asked to ensure timely availability and effective distribution of drug and diagnostics along with insecticides, fogging machines etc. States also need to pay attention for formation of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to effectively address any outbreak.

"Let us engage ASHAs and anganwaadi workers for door-to-door campaigns for awareness enhancement, community mobilisation and distribution of kits, medicines and other services", Mandaviya said.

He stressed that joint efforts by the states and central government hold the key towards effectively lowering and eliminating the burden of Vector Borne Diseases (VBDs) across the country. "Well laid out micro-level action plans at village, block, district, state and national levels with effective reviewing shall go a long way in meeting the targets", he stated.