Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Published : October 31, 2014 5:26 PM IST
Dengue cases don't seem to decline in major cities including Mumbai, Delhi and Pune. The civic body in Pune now plans to inspect mosquito control in the city. A panel of members from the civic body will now start monitoring mosquito breeding spots in areas through a door to door survey, starting from today. According to the discussed plans, the panel will be targeting 10 lakh houses, including those in slum areas and in societies, in a span of five days. (Read: What is the Ebola incubation period?)
The panel is a team of 30 members who will inspect slum areas in the afternoon and societies during morning and evening hours. About 300 machines will be used to spray and fog areas that could be breeding spots for mosquitoes. The members will also create awareness about dengue spread and prevention in the areas they inspect. (Read: 7 tips to prevent the spread of Ebola)
The data documented by the panel will be analysed to assess seriousness of the situation. It will also aid the course of action for eliminating dengue from the city. (Read: Ebola virus signs and symptoms you need to watch out for!)
Innovative ways to keep mosquitoes away
Mosquito-repellents: Most chemical mosquito repellants used contain a chemical known as DEET. This chemical acts as a poison that camouflages a person's natural odour thereby preventing mosquito bites. Apart from this, there are other synthetic repellents Icaridin, Permethrin, Bog Myrtle, etc.that are widely used. But care should be taken while using them as most of them cause skin irritation and other health complications. Although natural repellents are available in the market they are quite expensive and hence, are not commonly used.
Mosquito nets: Mosquito netting with different shapes, sizes and materials are available to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, but there are disadvantages associated with every type. Because of this, medicated nets (approved by WHO) have come into the picture that are currently considered to be one of the best solutions. The normal nets can be medicated using O (25% deltamethrin) tablets and are safe and effective (the effect of medicine lasts for about 6 months) than liquidators and coils.
Electric mosquito zapper: It is a mechanical device that uses ultraviolet light to attract mosquitoes and then kills them with its lethal dose of electricity. It is also quite commonly used by most people in Mumbai and other major cities in India.
Photo source: Getty images
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