The NVBDCP study found that the vector density, which refers to the number of mosquito population, is increasing over the months in Nagaland. (Image by Pete from Pixabay | For representational purpose only)
KOHIMA, December 13 (MExN): A routine entomological study conducted by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) on Malaria, Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis, (JE) has was found that the vector density, which refers to the number of mosquito population, is increasing over the months in Nagaland.
“The findings underscore growing public health concerns, as higher mosquito density significantly elevates the risk of transmission,” NVBDCP, Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland said in a press release.
Officials cited favourable climatic conditions, the presence of breeding sites due to stagnant water, and inconsistent community compliance with preventive measures may be further contributing to the surge in vector populations.
The findings have underscored urgent public health concerns, prompting health authorities to emphasise the need for enhanced community awareness, systematic source reduction, and early diagnosis and treatment to curb a potential escalation in cases.
In an appeal, the NVBDCP has urged residents across the state to remove stagnant water from all the containers around the house like flower pot bases, empty vessels, coolers, tyres, buckets etc. once a week because mosquitoes breed in stagnant water and the eggs will hatch in a week.
The programme has also advised the public to keep all water-filled vessels and tanks tightly covered and throw out any rubbish lying around like plastic cups, old containers, tyres, coconut shells etc. and to check around the compound every week.
A specific caution was issued against rearing pigs near human dwellings, as pigs act as amplifying hosts for the JE virus, which can then be transmitted to humans.
Health authorities are encouraging the use of mosquito nets both day and night, especially for pregnant women and children, and have advised immediate medical consultation in case of high fever.
