The Zero Malaria Target
Every year 25th April is observed as World Malaria Day, the theme for 2021 is ‘Reaching the zero malaria target’. Over the last decade, Nagaland has made major progress in the fight against malaria. Malaria positive cases in the state have declined from 4959 in 2010 to 12 positive cases in 2020 and it is with the concerted efforts of all that malaria positive cases have sharply declined over the years and we even stand to achieve complete malaria elimination from the state in the coming years. Towards this end the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme has recently distributed 8,45,529 Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) free of cost to the villages across the state. LLIN is one of the most important interventions in preventing malaria and other vector borne diseases and its correct and daily usage is encouraged within the community to achieve the zero malaria target in the state. The programme also appeals to the public to remember to continue with the other preventive measures against malaria as we all stand in the throes of Covid-19 pandemic.
Prevent mosquito breeding by taking the following measures:
1) All water storage containers should be covered with well fitted lid.
2) Remove / destroy all disposable, unused materials lying in and around the house like old tyres, broken pots, crockery or plastic items etc. to prevent water collection.
3) Fill up ditches and unwanted water collection sites in and around your surroundings.
4) Introduce larvivorous fishes if large water bodies like pond, fisheries, etc are around your surroundings. The larvivorous fishes can be collected from District Vector Borne Office Dimapur.
Prevention from mosquito bite:
1) Daily sleep under mosquito net preferably under Long Lasting Insecticidal Net (LLIN) provided by the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP).
2) Use mosquito repellent.
3) Wear long sleeve clothes especially when working outside.
Early Diagnosis and Complete Treatment:
1) Do not take any fever casually.
2) In case of fever get your blood tested immediately by an ASHA/health worker or at the nearest hospital.
3) If tested positive for malaria take complete course of medicine prescribed to you.
DR. Neisakho Kere
Joint Director & SPO (incharge)
National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP)
Directorate of Health and Family Welfare