The health department in Belagavi has launched a door-to-door campaign to raise awareness about the surge in dengue cases and other vector-borne diseases. ASHA workers will visit all 18 lakh houses across the district within the next two weeks, covering 14 lakh in rural and 4 lakh in urban areas. This initiative was detailed by District Health Officer Dr. Mahesh Koni during a Karnataka Development Programme (KDP) meeting at Suvarna Vidhana Soudha (SVS), chaired by District Minister Satish Jarkiholi.
Dr. Koni mentioned that the department is collaborating with NGOs in urban areas to ensure comprehensive outreach. Currently, Belagavi district has confirmed 209 dengue cases, with more cases reported in Belagavi, Khanapur, Ramdurg, and Bailhongal taluks. There are 17 active cases, including 10 in Belagavi alone.
DC Mohammad Roshan emphasized the strengthening of prevention measures, increased testing, and provision of proper treatment facilities. Large-scale fogging and other preventive measures are underway to curb larvae growth, with dedicated beds for dengue patients in government hospitals.
DC Roshan highlighted the use of two types of dengue tests: card tests for emergencies and Elisa tests for general confirmation. Efforts are focused on identifying and addressing dengue hotspots.
Minister Satish Jarkiholi urged officials to intensify public awareness efforts about dengue. MLC Prakash Hukkeri proposed innovative measures like flushing water into drainages with the help of fire services to eradicate larvae, inspired by successful initiatives in Ichalkaranji, Maharashtra.