Recently, there has been a significant increase in dengue cases in Jammu and Kashmir, with significant new cases reported every day from various districts. Jammu district is leading the affected persons list. Authorities have already raised concerns about the increasing number of dengue cases and advised citizens to take preventive measures. Emphasising once again the importance of ensuring there is no stagnant water in and around homes, as dengue mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. A list of basic precautions, like keeping water-filled containers and tanks covered and emptying coolers at least twice a week, has been issued.
The responsibility for addressing this recurring issue falls mainly on the various municipalities. When the same pattern of events repeats year after year, it indicates a systemic problem that needs attention. It seems that authorities are not taking ownership of their responsibilities regarding this. While strict municipal laws are in place for violations, there appears to be a lack of enforcement. Given the ongoing development activities in almost all districts, constant digging and open sites with stagnant rainwater have become common problems. Despite citizens’ complaints, there seems to be a lack of action to address these issues. Immediate steps, such as fogging, are necessary to contain the dengue outbreak. Simultaneously, awareness campaigns should continue to educate the public about the disease. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach. Concerned citizens, local community leaders, and advocacy groups should pressurise municipal authorities to take immediate and sustained action. This can include demanding transparency, accountability, and regular updates on the steps taken to prevent dengue outbreaks. Hospitals should also be prepared with emergency teams to handle a sudden increase in dengue cases. Citizens need to be informed about the disease and the precautions they should take, as a sudden decrease in platelet count can be life-threatening. Overall, this will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders to combat this problem. Allowing the situation to escalate and then reacting hastily is not an effective approach.
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