New Delhi, Sept 11 (UNI) Union Health Minister JP Nadda has advised states and union Territories to maintain heightened vigilance as India experiences a seasonal increase in vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, alongside water-borne illnesses, especially during the ongoing monsoon and post-monsoon phases, said a statement issued here today.
At a high-level review meeting convened yesterday, Nadda evaluated the current status and the readiness of states to tackle the situation.
Stressing the importance of “urgent and coordinated action,” he instructed states to strengthen surveillance efforts among others, said the statement.
Besides, stress has been laid on increasing community outreach, and intensifying vector control measures, while ensuring adequaate healthcare facilities to manage any potential surge in cases.
An advisory has been issued to all Chief Ministers, urging prompt and focused measures within the next 20 days. “State Health Ministers must personally monitor the situation and ensure preparedness at all levels,” Nadda emphasized.
He also called on municipal corporations and panchayati raj institutions to spearhead localized awareness drives.
Given Delhi and the National Capital Region’s susceptibility to dengue outbreaks, a specialized high-level review has been recommended for the area.
The union Health Ministry has directed all hospitals, including Central government institutions, to maintain adequate stocks of medicines, diagnostic kits, and ensure bed availability. Facilities have also been instructed to maintain mosquito-free environments.
States have been urged to tackle waterlogging — a primary mosquito breeding ground— especially after recent rains, and to sustain robust public engagement through intensive Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns and digital outreach initiatives, said the statement.
Highlighting India’s remarkable strides in malaria control, the Health Minister pointed out that the nation has achieved over a 78% reduction in malaria cases and deaths between 2015 and 2024. A total of 160 districts reported zero malaria cases between 2022 and 2024, with 33 states and union Territories attaining an Annual Parasite Incidence (API) below one.
The government’s roadmap for malaria elimination by 2030 includes the implementation of real-time surveillance through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), increased incentives for ASHAs, and large-scale distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs).
With dengue, chikungunya, and respiratory infections rising in various parts of the country, the Minister reiterated the crucial role of community involvement, inter-departmental coordination, and sustained vigilance to prevent outbreaks during this critical period, said the statement.
