Mosquito density to be monitored online
To prevent the outbreak of vector-borne diseases like chikungunya, health officials have decided to use information technology for monitoring the density of mosquitoes in all districts.A software has been developed in association with the National Informatics Centre to study online the profile and virulence of mosquitoes from a centralised system.“Officials at the district level will post the data on a website. The launch of this online monitoring mechanism is planned for July 12. As of now, the Health Department gets records by post. The new system will help in instant access to information,” Director of Public Health P. Padmanabhan told.According to Dr. Padmanabhan, the online system will be a strategic move to contain the spread of vector-borne diseases, especially when cases of chikungunya are being reported in neighbouring Kerala.District Malaria Officers will constantly monitor the mosquito density and update the website.The State-wide statistics will help officials initiate preventive measures when the density crosses the ‘critical level.’
