India Orders States To Step Up Dengue & Malaria Control
The Indian Health Ministry has issued an advisory directing all states and Union Territories to intensify prevention of dengue and malaria. States are asked to prepare action plans within 20 days. Hospitals must ensure they have sufficient drugs, diagnostics, beds, and keep premises mosquito-free.
Focus On Delhi And High-Risk Areas
A special review has been ordered for Delhi and the National Capital Region due to heightened risk in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Local bodies, municipal corporations, and panchayats are tasked with increasing community awareness and surveillance.
Malaria Elimination Goal And Progress
India aims to eliminate malaria by 2030. From 2015-2024, malaria cases and related deaths have dropped by about 78%. Between 2022-24, 160 districts reported zero malaria cases, and in 33 States/UTs the annual parasite incidence has dropped to less than one.
Dengue Control Measures
All states except Ladakh are considered dengue-endemic. Strategies include surveillance by State Vector-Borne Disease Cells, case management, vector control, and increased community awareness campaigns. Free diagnostic kits for dengue and chikungunya are being supplied.
