The family of Diksha Shreya Chand, a Year 12 student at Xavier College, is urging the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to take urgent action following her tragic death from dengue fever. Diksha passed away on Sunday, mere days after contracting the disease. Her father, Danny Vikash Chand, recounted how she experienced symptoms starting on Thursday, March 27, after returning from school, initially receiving treatment that seemed to clear her. However, her condition deteriorated over the weekend, leading to a devastating diagnosis of third-stage dengue and organ failure.
This incident marks the first dengue-related death of a student at Xavier College. Mr. Chand expressed his grief and called for the ministry to assess the health risks surrounding the school, especially amidst rising reports of illness among students in the area.
He was echoed by Independent Opposition member Parveen Kumar Bala, who criticized the Ministry of Health for not adequately addressing the dengue outbreak in the Western Division when it was first announced. Bala questioned the government’s preparedness and response to the epidemic, highlighting the need for concrete plans to prevent such tragedies.
In response to recent events, the Ministry of Health has acknowledged the increasing dengue cases within the community, which has prompted them to implement various health initiatives such as adult mosquito spraying and cleanup campaigns in high-risk areas. The overall strategy aims to control mosquito populations and reduce potential breeding sites.
Previous reports have indicated a concerning spike in dengue fever cases across Fiji, notably in the Western Division, which has seen thousands of cases reported since early this year. Health officials have continuously emphasized the importance of public health education and community involvement in these preventive measures, especially during heavy rainfall seasons that exacerbate mosquito breeding.
As health authorities work to manage the dengue outbreak, there remains a hopeful perspective that through collective community action and government response, the propagation of the disease can be curtailed.
This tragic event serves as a critical reminder of the importance of health vigilance, proactive measures, and prompt medical attention to safeguard the well-being of students and the broader community.
Leave a comment