Delhi steps up dengue prevention efforts, Health Minister chairs meet
New Delhi, July 6
Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj led a comprehensive meeting late Friday evening with key officials from various departments to strengthen preparations against the spread of dengue.
The meeting, attended by representatives from Home & Family Welfare, DGHS, MCD, NDMC, Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), PWD, Directorate of Education, DSIIDC and I&FC, focused on implementing proactive measures to combat the mosquito-borne disease.
Highlighting the proactive steps taken, Bharadwaj announced that 40 lakh pamphlets have been printed for widespread public distribution to raise awareness about dengue prevention. Additionally, ASHA workers have been extensively trained to educate residents on identifying and preventing dengue breeding grounds.
“The health and safety of Delhi’s residents are paramount, especially during the monsoon when mosquito breeding increases,” said Bharadwaj. “We have intensified our efforts with increased genome sequencing of samples to track dengue strains and enhance our response strategies,” he added.
During the meeting, MCD officials briefed Bharadwaj on initiatives such as distributing dengue homework cards in schools and intensifying inspections to curb mosquito breeding.
“All schools under MCD have been instructed to enforce preventive measures, including ensuring students wear full sleeves and distributing dengue homework cards,” said a senior MCD official.
Education officials informed the minister about ongoing advisories and plans for parent-teacher meetings (PTM) to educate families on dengue and malaria precautions. “We are committed to ensuring every school complies with safety protocols,” assured an Education Directorate representative.
The meeting also addressed coordination with NDMC to issue advisories and distribute educational materials.
DUSIB officials highlighted efforts in JJ clusters to prevent stagnant water accumulation, while DSIIDC assured measures to maintain dry work environments in industrial areas. Bharadwaj emphasised the need for continued vigilance and coordination across departments.
Preemptive measures
All schools under MCD have been told to enforce preventive measures, including ensuring students wear full sleeves and distributing dengue homework cards. — Saurabh Bharadwaj, Health Minister
