Mosquito Fish Fight Monsoon Dengue Threat

Tiruchi Corporation has intensified its vector control efforts this monsoon by releasing gambusia affinis, commonly known as mosquito fish, into city wells. This initiative targets mosquito breeding grounds in stagnant water, aiming to prevent outbreaks of dengue and malaria. The fish are a natural predator, with each capable of consuming 100 to 300 mosquito larvae daily, making them an effective biological control.

The civic body is procuring fingerlings and releasing them strategically, with two males and eight females per well. For vacant plots with stagnant water, oil balls are used as an alternative. This biological approach is preferred over oil balls which can contaminate well water. Residents requesting the fish are also being provided with them.

Alongside the fish release, a multi-pronged strategy is in place. Domestic breeding checkers and sanitation workers are clearing stagnant water and drains, while fogging and water chlorination are conducted regularly. Furthermore, 37 to 45 fever camps are operating daily, supported by a mobile medical unit distributing nilavembu kashayam to combat potential outbreaks.