Deputy Opposition leader Parveen Bala has urged the Government to take immediate action in addressing the litter problem, which he believes is exacerbating the ongoing dengue fever outbreak in the Western Division. His comments come in the wake of a tragic incident involving the death of a Ba student who contracted the disease.
Bala emphasized the necessity for the Government to enhance its clean-up campaigns aimed at controlling the mosquito populations that spread dengue fever. He questioned the Government’s plans in response to the outbreak, citing that during their term, there were consistent efforts such as spraying and clean-up campaigns to battle dengue outbreaks.
He expressed awareness of the visible litter problem across urban areas, stating, “You go and see in towns; there is rubbish piled in any street you go. Along our highways, there’s rubbish along roadsides, in mangrove areas, in waterways.” Bala called on the Ministry of Health, particularly those responsible in the Western Division, to “wake up” to the seriousness of this issue.
The Ministry of Health has reported over 5,128 dengue cases recorded between January 1 and March 23 of this year, with the Western Division being heavily impacted. The rising numbers underline the urgent need for improved public health measures, as recent heavy rains have created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.
A similar article highlighted efforts by the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, who also emphasized the importance of community involvement in preventing the spread of dengue. He called on students, teachers, and the general public to participate in maintaining a clean environment, particularly in eliminating potential breeding sites for mosquitoes.
To effectively manage the dengue outbreak, collaboration between health officials and the community is vital. The coordinated efforts to undertake clean-up initiatives and educate the public on preventive measures may provide a hopeful pathway to controlling and eventually reducing the spread of dengue fever.
This situation serves as a critical reminder of the joint responsibility that communities and the government share in safeguarding public health. By rallying together and engaging in collective action, residents can significantly contribute to mitigating the impact of such health challenges.
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