10 October,2023 06:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reported a decline in monsoon-related diseases in Mumbai. According to its Epid Cell, Public Health Department data, issued on October 10, indicates a notable reduction in cases when compared to the previous weeks, encompassing various illnesses, including malaria and dengue.
The number of cases increased in the year 2023 since the reporting units were augmented from 22 to 880 across the cities. The units include BMC
dispensaries, BMC Hospitals, HBT clinics, additional private labs, and private hospitals.
According to the civic body's data, from October 1-8, Mumbai reported 211 cases as opposed to 1313 in the previous month. Meanwhile, Dengue cases also noticed a drastic dip; as many as 250 cases were reported in October which is a significant drop from 1360 in September.
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Action taken by BMC
The BMC conducted a thorough house-to-house fever survey, covering 350,000 houses and surveying a population of 1,750,000. As part of this effort, 29,823 blood slides were collected for malaria, and 2,033 individuals were provided prophylaxis for leptospirosis. The BMC also organized 34 health camps and conducted 17 workplace interventions.
To address water-borne diseases, the BMC tested 840 water samples. Additionally, 2,598 oral rehydration solution (ORS) packets were distributed for gastroenteritis, and 1,347 chlorine tablets were distributed for water disinfection.
In an attempt to control leptospirosis, the BMC undertook measures to eliminate rats. A total of 420 rats were killed through poison baiting and Celphos fumigation, while 825 rats were trapped. Night Rat Killing (NRK) organisations contributed significantly by killing 9,231 rats.
Vector control activities were pivotal in reducing the spread of diseases. For malaria control, 5,442 houses and 17,617 breeding sources were inspected, with 567 Anopheles mosquito breeding sites detected. In the case of dengue control, 324,582 houses and 345,210 containers were inspected, leading to the detection of 5,102 Aedes mosquito breeding sites. Fogging operations were also extensive, with 5,577 machine fillings, covering 15,968 building premises and 203,581 huts.
Advisory for Prevention
The BMC has issued vital advisories to prevent vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue. Residents are encouraged to use mosquito nets while sleeping, wear complete clothing to avoid mosquito bites and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings to prevent mosquito breeding. In cases of symptoms like fever, headache, rashes, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea, individuals are advised not to self-medicate but to consult the nearest BMC health post, dispensary, or hospital promptly.
The decline in monsoon-related diseases in Mumbai is a testament to the BMC's proactive approach to public health. The organization's meticulous efforts in conducting surveys, implementing control measures, and disseminating preventive advisories have collectively contributed to safeguarding the health of the city's residents during the monsoon season. The BMC remains committed to its mission of ensuring the well-being of the community and mitigating the impact of monsoon-related health risks.
