THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The mosquito index has exceeded limits in many parts of the state capital setting alarm bells ringing for the health authorities.
Several hot spots have been identified in the corporation limits and across the districts stressing the need for extensive and regular fogging activities.
As per the vector survey carried out by district vector units between June 17 and June 23, the Breteau Index – which is calculated based on the number of positive containers per hundred houses inspected – has crossed 85.
According to officials the figure indicates the increase in the density of Aedes mosquitoes which causes dengue. An official said that stringent measures would be taken to enforce dry day observation at households, educational institutions, and public institutions.
“The mosquito index is alarmingly high which demands extensive fogging activities. The decision has been taken to carry out extensive fogging activities on a regular basis. Corporation area and adjoining panchayats are the worst hit,” said the official. Extensive fogging activities have been planned this month.
The district medical office has given strict direction to the city corporation to step up measures. “Every week we exchange the vector index and hot spots identified in the corporation area,” the official added.
