The National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (NVBDCP) conducted a district monitoring at Mokokchung district on 23rd and 24th August 2023.

The team, led by Senior Regional Director Imphal, Dr. L.A. Singh, along with Deputy Director NVBDCP Dr. Tinurenla Anichari, state consultants, district consultant, Malaria Technical Staff, and Surveillance Workers (SW), inspected several locations including Primary Health Centre Longkhum village, Primary Health Centre Ungma village, Dr. Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital, Health Sub-Centre Mokokchung village, the office of the Chief Medical Officer in Aliba village, and Lenjem Hospital. The purpose was to assess the implementation of NVBDCP and the Non-Communicable Disease programme.

During interactions with medical staff, district NVBDCP personnel and ASHAs, Dr. Singh emphasized that timely detection of malaria cases is crucial to prevent outbreaks. He stressed the importance of surveillance in this regard. Dr. Singh advised that blood slides should only be collected if results can be provided within 24 hours. In cases where a trained laboratory technician is unavailable, he recommended using Rapid Diagnostic Test.

Dr. Singh highlighted that blood slides should be collected only from individuals currently suffering from fever or those who have had a fever within the past two weeks. He also noted that there could be indigenous cases if individuals do not disclose their travel history. Therefore, he urged the screening of people coming from outside the state, especially migrant laborers, and to establish coordination with paramilitary forces. Additionally, he recommended employing SWs to conduct screening on a fortnightly basis.

Observing that many patients prefer private hospitals over government facilities, Dr. Singh suggested maintaining regular contact with private hospitals on a quarterly basis to stay updated on malaria cases.

Regarding the distribution of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), Dr. Singh urged the importance of encouraging people to use mosquito nets and maintaining accurate stock records with daily updates on the IHIP portal.

The Regional Director noted that while dengue cases have been relatively low this year, dengue fever typically increases after the monsoon season. He urged the staff to remain vigilant and dedicated in their efforts.

(DIPR)