Health Squad Tackles Kerala Disease Outbreak

A dedicated health squad is being established in Kerala's Vattiyoorkavu constituency to enhance efforts against communicable diseases, including dengue and chikungunya. This initiative stems from a recent meeting where councillors' concerns about uncoordinated mosquito-control measures were addressed. The health minister announced the squad would operate under ward councillors, integrating health department and city corporation officials.

The decision to form the squad followed reports of 54 chikungunya and 87 dengue cases during June and July within Vattiyoorkavu. A detailed action plan, including source reduction, fogging, and awareness campaigns, is underway to curb the spread. Residents' associations will also be enlisted to help identify and eliminate mosquito-breeding sites in communities.

Separately, the meeting addressed the spread of tomato flu at Govt Girls Higher Secondary School, Pattom. Despite recommendations for a 10-day closure, the school reportedly remained open, leading to further transmission. Poor sanitation on school grounds was also noted, prompting a request to the education department for cooperation from school authorities.