Health department cautions against dengue in Kozhikode

The health authorities in Kozhikode have urged the public to take strict precautions against dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses following intermittent rain across the district.

The health department warned that stagnant water left behind by the rains creates ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, making immediate control measures essential.

Aedes mosquitoes, the primary vectors of dengue, breed in stagnant water that collects in discarded plastic containers, bottles, tins, disused tyres, coconut shells, plant saucers and open water storage vessels in and around homes and workplaces.

Health officials have advised people to inspect their surroundings at least once a week to locate and destroy potential breeding sites. Water storage containers must be kept tightly covered and drained, scrubbed and cleaned weekly.

To strengthen prevention efforts, the department has outlined a ‘Dry Day’ campaign in the district. On Fridays, special cleaning and source-reduction drives will be held in schools. On Saturdays, government and private offices and institutions will undertake maintenance and clean-up activities. On Sundays, households will be inspected and potential breeding sites destroyed.

Residents experiencing symptoms such as fever, severe body ache, intense headache or pain behind the eyes should seek medical attention. Health officials have also cautioned against self-medication and waiting for symptoms to subside, advising people to visit the nearest health centre or hospital.

For personal protection, the authorities said Aedes mosquitoes primarily bite during the day. Recommended precautions include wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs, using mosquito nets and applying repellents.

Mosquito control is not solely the responsibility of the Health department. Every individual, family and institution must take part in keeping their surroundings free of mosquito breeding sites, they said.