Visakhapatnam: The North Andhra region is witnessing a significant rise in seasonal fevers, with malaria and dengue cases spiking due to recent continuous rains.
In response, the GVMC has launched extensive measures to combat the outbreak. These include city-wide fogging operations and a call for citizens to observe a "dry day" to help curb mosquito breeding.
In June, Visakhapatnam district reported 40 malaria cases and 38 dengue cases. Meanwhile, the highest number of cases was recorded in Vizianagaram district, with 75 malaria and 11 dengue cases. Srikakulam district reported the lowest, with only 5 malaria cases and 7 dengue cases from January through July.
GVMC medical officer Naresh Kumar emphasized the seasonal nature of these fevers, exacerbated by the rains. "This is known as the epidemic season. We are conducting fogging activities every week in such areas, and are also carrying out anti-larvae operations. We are also spraying the drains to control the mosquito population," Kumar told Deccan Chronicle.
Vizianagaram district malaria officer Mani identified five key mandals – S Kota, Mentada Mandal, PM Palem and Rambhadrapuram – as areas of primary concern. "We've pinpointed 113 high-risk villages based on the annual parasite incidence parameter. Preventive measures such as indoor residual spraying, heightened surveillance, house-to-house visits, and awareness campaigns are already under way," Mani explained.
