Team Herald

MARGAO: In view of the rise in dengue and chikungunya cases, medical officers connected with the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) are creating awareness about what needs to be done to curtail the spread of these diseases and what one should do if they contract the same.

During these sessions, the doctors will explain how these viral diseases spread, and ways to prevent the breeding of the mosquitoes in the surroundings. One such talk titled ‘dengue and chikungunya’ – prevention and control is being organised by the Probus Club of Margao, on Friday, October 7, at the Rotary Club Hall at Lake View Plaza, Fatorda. The talk will be delivered by Dr Pratista Kunkolienkar, Ayush Medical Officer (National Health Mission), Urban Health Centre (UHC) Margao, who is also the NVBDCP nodal officer.

Dengue and chikungunya are diseases transmitted to humans by the bite of Aedes egypti mosquitoes, infected with the virus. Cases of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria are usually reported in Goa between July and November, sometimes stretching till mid-December. With a dry spell beginning after the monsoon, doctors have warned that the breeding of disease-causing vectors can only be prevented by maintaining the cleanliness of one’s surroundings. This includes not allowing any stagnant fresh water to collect in pots, vases, discarded buckets and similar receptacles, which are the major breeding grounds for mosquito larvae in cities.

The symptoms include flu-like symptoms such as high fever, headache, rash and muscle and joint pain, which are similar to symptoms of Covid-19.