Patiala, June 27:
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh led health department teams in a door-to-door anti-dengue awareness and inspection drive in Ranjit Nagar, Patiala, as part of the state’s “Har Shukarvaar, Dengue Te Vaar” campaign. During the visit, he personally inspected homes for mosquito breeding sites, including containers and stagnant water sources, and ensured immediate destruction of any mosquito larva found. He also educated residents on preventive measures to curb the spread of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases.
Emphasizing community participation, Dr. Balbir Singh urged residents to dedicate one hour every Friday to check their homes and surroundings for stagnant water. “Dengue mosquitoes breed in clean, standing water. By emptying and drying containers once a week, we can prevent the larvae from maturing and protect our families,” he said.
Accompanied by Civil Surgeon Dr. Jagpalinder Singh and health department officials, the minister visited rooftops, flower pots, water coolers, animal troughs, and other common breeding spots. Larva was detected at several locations and destroyed immediately. He also appealed to owners of vacant plots to maintain cleanliness to avoid creating health hazards for neighboring residents.
Dr. Balbir Singh reminded the public that dengue testing and treatment are available free of cost at all government hospitals. Additional beds have been reserved for dengue patients as a precautionary measure. “While treatment is available, prevention remains our best defense. Small, consistent efforts at home can stop the spread,” he added.
The ongoing campaign encourages every household across Punjab to participate in larva-checking activities every Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., focusing on areas where water can accumulate and allow mosquitoes to breed.
On this occasion, Dr. Sumit Singh informed that a total of 24,317 houses were checked today, and larva was found in 109 houses. He added that 304,740 houses have been checked so far, and larva has been detected in 768 houses.
Senior Medical Officer Dr. Monika and other health officials were also present during the drive.
