Date:18/06/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/06/18/stories/2007061809420100.htm

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Steps to prevent chikungunya outbreak

K. Lakshmi

PREVENTIVE ACTION: Fogging operation in progress at Anna Nagar west extension on Saturday. — Photo: K.Pichumani

CHENNAI:

A case of suspected chikungunya in a private hospital in Ambattur two days ago has forced the Municipality intensify its measures to prevent an outbreak.

An official said that the patient is a resident of Maduravoyal (an area not coming under the limits of Ambattur Municipality). Nonetheless, the civic body does not want to take chances.

Fogging operation in several areas, including Ambattur, Padi and Anna Nagar west extension, to curb mosquito breeding has been stepped up. A municipal official said the operation would be carried out once a fortnight and spraying of insecticides every week in various areas. Beginning Tuesday, the civic body would conduct awareness programmes against the disease.

Besides a rally involving school children, a training programme for the teachers and members of self-help groups would be organised with the objective to reach out to students and public, the official said.

About Rs.2.50 lakh has been allocated for the measures, including for fogging and spraying operations. Cards with information about the disease are to be issued to about 50,000 school students, he said.

Members of SHGs and students would be involved in a door-to door campaign and pamphlets would be distributed on June 23 and June 24.