Punjab Government Intensifies Fight Against Water and Vector-Borne Diseases
Chandigarh: Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has underscored the importance of inter-departmental collaboration in the prevention and control of water and vector-borne diseases. Chairing a high-level review meeting, he outlined a comprehensive strategy to combat these health challenges.
The minister emphasized the need for district-level coordination committees involving health officials, local bodies, water supply, and rural development departments to monitor disease outbreaks and implement timely preventive measures. He also stressed the importance of functional RO systems in villages to ensure safe drinking water.
To encourage community participation, the Health Department will launch a ‘Dengue/Malaria Free Village’ campaign, recognizing and rewarding villages free from these diseases. Schools will be engaged to educate children about identifying mosquito larvae and promoting preventive measures.
The government has established dedicated dengue wards and surveillance hospitals, while also training healthcare workers to tackle the issue. Local bodies have been directed to conduct regular fogging and share schedules with the health department.
By combining these efforts, the Punjab government aims to significantly reduce the incidence of water and vector-borne diseases in the state.
