HT Bureau
DIPHU, Aug 18: Despite concerted efforts, the positivity rate of dengue fever in Diphu municipal area remains alarmingly high at 45%, prompting the health department to rally for a collective battle against the ongoing outbreak.
During a press conference convened at the office of the joint director of health services, Dr Borsing Rongpi addressed the concerning situation. He disclosed that the number of dengue cases in Karbi Anglong, particularly in Diphu municipal area, has surged compared to the previous year. Last year’s recorded positive cases amounted to 3,548, while this year, up to July, a total of 4,897 tests were conducted, out of which 2,041 yielded positive results.
Dr Rongpi highlighted the significance of the continuing high positivity rate and its implications. He stated, “The Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes, responsible for transmitting the dengue virus, lay eggs that remain viable even when the breeding site dries out. Upon contact with rainwater, these eggs hatch, perpetuating the cycle of dengue transmission. Our focus is on curtailing this spread. The situation is ongoing and is expected to persist until the end of the monsoon season.”
In response to this persistent threat, the health department has undertaken multifaceted measures. These include source reduction, fogging, and the distribution of mosquito repellent creams. The department is keen on involving the community in these efforts to effectively combat the dengue outbreak and mitigate its impact on the population.
