With the alarming rise of dengue cases in various parts of the country and 2023 being one of the worst dengue cases/ fatalities recorded in the state, a two-day dengue awareness campaign themed “Beat Dengue: Our Health Our Responsibility” was organized by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) and Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research (CIHSR).
The campaign held on August 8 and 9 at LG Hall CIHSR, attended by representatives from the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and community leaders from Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland, highlighted the importance of community involvement in dengue prevention and aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to combat the disease effectively.
Addressing the gathering as a special guest State Programme Officer of NVBDCP, Dr. Neisakho Kere noted that last year saw the emergence of dengue serotypes 1 and 2 in the state, with Serotype 2 being more severe. Dr. Kere explained that the challenge in controlling dengue lies in the transovarial transmission of the virus, where infected mosquitoes pass the virus to their offspring, making it difficult to eradicate through fogging alone.
He emphasized that since there is no effective vaccine available, the best prevention methods include eliminating mosquito breeding sites and using protective measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets.
Dr. Kere also advocated for the practice of observing one dry day every week to minimize mosquito breeding sites and reduce the incidence of dengue and other vector-borne diseases.
Dr. Kere reflected on the challenges faced during the previous year’s outbreak, including difficulties in controlling the movement of infected individuals and the high incidence of false positives from Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs). He also highlighted issues such as inadequate blood storage and a decline in public blood donations, which exacerbated the situation.
Dr. Kere commended CIHSR for its efforts in raising awareness about vector-borne diseases and dengue, and called for continued improvements in mosquito control and healthcare responses.
On the second day, district program officer NVBDCP, CMO establishment, Dr. Kavito Zhimomi urged the public leaders on the need for community participation in preventing mass spread of dengue virus.
Resource person Dr. Nokchur Imchen, consultant in general medicine at CIHSR, provided an overview of dengue, covering clinical symptoms, complications, and public health significance. Kikolul Khieya, assistant director of UVBDS Dimapur, discussed dengue vectors, breeding sites, and control measures.
The program included a Q&A session where Dr. Limatula Aier, Chief Medical Officer of Dimapur, and Dr. Imchen addressed queries from the attendees. Dr. Atsung Aier, senior consultant in Community Health department at CIHSR, moderated a group discussion and anti-dengue action plan.
Peter Sangtam, Consultant NVBDCP, CMO Establishment gave a report on dengue vector, its breeding site & control measures. Dr. Atsung Aier Sr. Consultant Community Health Department CIHSR led the group discussion on anti-dengue action plan.
The opening address was delivered by the medical superintendent of CIHSR Dr Bendangtoshi Jamir, and the program was chaired by Laishram Vidyalakshmi, Quality Officer at CIHSR.
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