POONCH: Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Vikas Kundal chaired a crucial meeting today to review the ongoing dengue control efforts in the district. The meeting, held in the DC’s office chamber, was attended by Dr. Nusrat Bhatti, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Poonch, the Executive Officer (EO) of Poonch Municipality, along with other senior officials and key stakeholders.
Amid rising dengue cases in the Jammu region, the DC stressed the urgency of swift and coordinated action across all departments to curb the spread of the mosquito-borne disease. He emphasized that a unified approach, involving multiple sectors, is essential for effectively managing the situation.
During the meeting, the EO of Poonch Municipality briefed the DC on the extensive fogging and spraying operations being conducted in both urban and rural areas of the district. These efforts aim to target and eliminate mosquito breeding sites, with a particular focus on the Aedes mosquito, which is responsible for transmitting the dengue virus.
The DC called for the intensification of these efforts to ensure that all potential breeding grounds are addressed.
In an effort to further raise awareness, the DC instructed the Chief Education Officer to integrate dengue awareness programs into school routines, with a focus on educating students during morning assemblies about preventive measures. Additionally, the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat was directed to disseminate advisories across all panchayats, ensuring that rural communities are well-informed about preventive measures.
The CMO Poonch was tasked with enhancing the district’s medical infrastructure to manage potential outbreaks.
The DC stressed the importance of maintaining adequate stocks of medicines and diagnostic tools in healthcare facilities across Poonch. He noted early detection and timely treatment of dengue cases are crucial in minimizing the disease’s impact on public health.
The Deputy Commissioner also reiterated the importance of public cooperation in the fight against dengue. He urged residents to maintain cleanliness, prevent water stagnation, and adopt recommended health practices to limit mosquito breeding.