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| Saturday, 3 July 2004 |
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Poor public response to dengue time-bomb by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi Health authorities yesterday warned that the dengue epidemic could hit a peak during this month owing to the poor response from the public towards the dengue eradication program, including keeping the environment clean. The total number of suspected cases stood at 6,743 by yesterday while the number of deaths due to dengue fever rose to 28. Gampaha and Colombo districts are the worst affected while Kurunegala, Kandy, Trincomalee and Kalutara also recorded a high prevalence. Out of the 48 deaths, 16 have been reported from Colombo. "But the response from the people is very poor and this has led to the rapid increase of suspected cases," Colombo Municipal Council Chief Medical Officer Dr. Pradeep Kariyawasam said. Last month alone 190 cases had been reported within Colombo Municipality area while the total number of cases stood at 430. Six cases have been reported within the last two days in this month, recording an alarming increase. A senior Health Ministry official said the number of cases is increasing daily due to the rain in many parts of the country. The highest number of dengue cases are reported during June and July, every year. "During this period, people should be extra-careful," Dr. Kariyawasam added. "Unless the public supports to ensure a clean environment, this might turn into an epidemic causing a severe crisis," the official added. "Public support is poor and the people are not paying adequate attention to this crucial issue," said Dr. Kariyawasam adding that dengue would reach its peak if the public fail to carry out environment cleaning programs. The Health Ministry has urged the public to clear breeding places of dengue mosquitoes by getting rid of cans, tins, coconut shells, old tyres, small containers and roof gutters where rainwater gets collected. "The elimination of mosquito breeding places is the key to an effective and sustainable preventive strategy," the Ministry said. The Ministry has also installed a hotline (011-267 5449). for entertaining public complaints and queries. |
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