Dengue awareness drive: Health Dept educates students across city

Dengue awareness efforts are gaining momentum across the city, with the Health Department actively organising awareness lectures in schools and colleges. Civil Surgeon Dr Ramandeep Kaur said these sessions aim to sensitise students about dengue and the necessary precautions to prevent the disease.

During a session, Dr Barjinder Singh Brar from the Mass Media Wing addressed students, explaining the causes and prevention methods for dengue. He said dengue is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito. He said there are four distinct serotypes of the dengue virus and symptoms typically appear within three to 14 days, with an average of four to seven days after being bitten. He added dengue fever, which resembles flu-like symptoms, can affect individuals of all ages, including infants, children and adults.

Dr Brar said the mosquito requires stagnant water to breed, making the elimination of standing water essential for prevention. He urged students not to allow water to stagnate around their homes, even in flower pots and gardens. “Stored water should always be covered. Also, mosquitoes are attracted to smells, so it is important to keep dustbins covered and ensure the surroundings are clean and free from dirt and water,” he said.

Dr Brar also encouraged students to spread awareness of the disease to their families and communities. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, where students were eager to learn more and had numerous questions, all of which Dr Brar answered with enthusiasm and a smile.

Ludhiana