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Public still unconcerned over dengue danger, say health officials
The anti dengue campaign is well into three months but breeding sites are still prevalent primarily due to public negligence, health officials said.
Although 8,322 cases have been filed in courts against offenders, the risk still persists, the recently concluded phase three of the emergency dengue programme revealed.
Phase three targeted high risk areas that included Modara Mattakkuliya, Wanathamulla, Grandpass, Maligawatta, Pamankada, Thimbirigasyaya and Wellawatte last Thursday and Friday.
Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ruwan Wijayamuni, said, “We targeted 2,850 houses in these areas. Ten percent were potential dengue breeding grounds and four percent actually had mosquito larvae.
“The people are still not concerned, they aren’t trying to keep their households clean. We issued 151 warning notices and we have filed 104 court cases against offenders.”
Western Province Health Services Director Dr. Deepthi Perera said that Gampaha and Colombo Districts reported the highest number of dengue cases in the Western Province.
She said local government bodies and the Environment Ministry had bigger roles to play such as regularly collecting garbage. Dr. Perera also said proper composting methods could also help in the long term.
Commenting on the anti dengue campaign Deputy Municipal Commissioner for Health Services Dr. Pradeep Kariyawasam said, “They have been using the forces for almost a month now. These people aren’t properly trained; also the cost involved must be taken into consideration. Especially now since there is less chance of mosquitos breeding since it’s the dry season.”
“The most effective way is for the Health Ministry to train about 100 youths and have them involved in these campaigns throughout the year. Perhaps a salary of Rs. 22, 000 could be paid to one person. It would be worthwhile. We could make use of youths awaiting university entrance and we could also refer these people for jobs.”
According to Public Health Inspectors’ (PHI’s) Union Secretary Senerath Bandara 1,800 PHIs have been dispatched for these campaigns.
“One PHI handles approximately 15,000-20,000 people in a division. When we engage in these campaigns our other duties including conducting food raids etc. are neglected,” Mr. Bandara said