25 October,2023 07:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Civic officials use a fogging machine in the city in January. Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's Epid Cell within the Public Health Department has released its monthly comparison report on monsoon-related diseases, indicating a decline in cases. The report, issued on October 25 revealed key statistics and actions taken by the BMC in response to these health concerns.
Notable observations from the report include a consistent decrease in the number of cases across various monsoon-related diseases. The decline is attributed to the substantial increase in reporting units, which expanded from 22 to 880. These reporting units encompass BMC dispensaries, BMC Hospitals, HBT clinics, additional private labs, and private hospitals.
The action taken by the BMC from October 1 to October 22 includes a comprehensive house-to-house fever survey, with 855,000 houses and 4,275,000 people surveyed. Additionally, 67,080 blood slides were collected for malaria testing, and 3,059 individuals received prophylaxis for leptospirosis. The BMC conducted 94 health camps and 57 workplace interventions during this period.
A separate house-to-house survey was carried out to address waterborne diseases. In this context, 2,632 water samples were tested, 8,182 ORS packets were distributed for gastro-related issues, and 3,634 chlorine tablets were provided for water disinfection.
The report also outlines the BMC's efforts in controlling leptospirosis, which include measures such as poison baiting, Celphos fumigation, and night rat killing (NRK) organisations. These actions resulted in the extermination of 1,504 rats, with 2,742 rats trapped and 25,970 rats killed through NRK initiatives.
The data provided in the report displays the number of cases for various diseases in the months of July, August, September, and the partial month of October 2023. Notably, the cases are consistently declining across these diseases, offering a positive outlook on the health situation.
To prevent vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, the BMC offers advisory measures, including the use of mosquito nets, proper clothing, maintaining cleanliness, and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms. These guidelines aim to minimize the spread of these diseases and ensure early treatment.
Additionally, the report provides advisory information for the prevention of H1N1 and flu, emphasizing personal hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and prompt medical consultation in case of symptoms.
The BMC's dedicated efforts in surveying, testing, and public awareness campaigns contribute to a healthier environment for Mumbai residents and a reduction in monsoon-related illnesses.
