Month-long Fogging Drive Begins in Noida to Fight Vector-Borne Diseases

The health department of Noida authority has launched a month-long campaign to fog and spray anti-larvae medicines to combat the spread of vector-borne diseases. On Tuesday, health workers were seen fogging in Sector 12, Noida. (Sunil Ghosh/HT Photo)

Officials noted that cases of dengue and malaria usually rise during the rainy season because the weather conditions are ideal for mosquito breeding.

The department has taken swift action to control the spread of infections and prevent any outbreaks.

“A campaign against vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria has started in Noida and will continue until July 31. Teams of 52 health workers will be conducting fogging and anti-larvae spraying throughout Noida,” said Gaurav Bansal, senior manager (health), Noida authority.

“We have 22 small machines and four large machines for fogging, and these will be used across Noida on a rotational basis,” Bansal added.

According to the health department of Gautam Budh Nagar, various departments, including the food and drugs administration (FDA), have been involved to raise awareness among residents about the diseases and the preventive measures they should take during this season.

Health officials mentioned that so far, only a few cases of dengue and malaria have been reported in Gautam Budh Nagar, but the numbers are expected to increase once heavy rains begin.

“From January 1 until now, only six cases of dengue and 13 cases of malaria have been reported in the district. These numbers are significantly lower compared to last year; however, they are expected to rise around August and September,” said Shruti Verma, district malaria officer (DMO).

“Heavy rain and waterlogging are major factors as stagnant water in city areas provides a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes,” Verma explained.

The health department reported that over 970 cases of dengue were registered across the district in 2023, while in 2022, the total number of dengue cases was around 660.

Officials stated that various departments such as the FDA, animal husbandry, and district administration will be conducting awareness drives to educate residents about the spread of infections and the steps to combat vector-borne diseases.

A six-bed facility for mosquito-borne diseases is currently operational at Noida district hospital in Sector 39, and the number of beds will be increased based on the number of cases, health officials said.