Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada Health Department has intensified malaria surveillance following a rise in cases across the district, with workers arriving from other States emerging as a key focus of preventive measures.

The district has recorded 30 confirmed malaria cases over the past two months, of which 23 involve people from outside Dakshina Kannada or other States. A majority of the cases have been reported within Mangaluru city limits.

Migrant workers under health department watch

Health officials said the movement of workers from malaria-affected States such as Bihar, Odisha and Jharkhand is creating an additional challenge for disease-control efforts.

A special team has been formed to monitor construction sites where large numbers of migrant workers are employed. Health personnel are screening workers, collecting blood samples and conducting awareness programmes to encourage early testing and treatment.

Authorities are also planning awareness initiatives with construction companies and other establishments. Employers may be advised to ensure workers arriving from other States undergo malaria screening before joining work.

Rain and sunshine raise mosquito risk

Intermittent rain followed by sunshine has increased the possibility of mosquito breeding. The Health Department has therefore intensified door-to-door larval surveys in both urban and rural areas to identify stagnant water and breeding sites.

Residents have been urged to remove stagnant water from discarded containers and unused items, use mosquito nets and install mesh on doors and windows. Pregnant women have been advised to take additional precautions against mosquito bites.

Prompt testing can prevent complications

Health officials have urged people not to ignore fever, particularly during the monsoon, and to seek medical advice promptly instead of taking medicines without consultation.

Officials stressed that public cooperation will be crucial in preventing malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue, from spreading further during the rainy season