Treatment in time can save lives: Health Minister

As part of the effort, Health Minister Dr C Vijaya Baskar, Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan and other Public Health department officials reviewed the dengue control measures on Friday. They conducted a field visit at Border Thottam here.

The officials conducted a door-to-door inspection and created awareness among households on the importance of sanitation and hygiene. They also urged the residents to take steps to prevent the breeding of mosquitos.

“Our aim is to reach zero deaths from fever. Due to the monsoon and change in climatic conditions, we have been seeing a slight increase in fever cases. Less than one per cent of the in-patients die due to dengue or swine flu. However, we need to prevent that completely,” said Vijaya Baskar.

“1,200 special medical camps have been set up across the State. The number of labs where tests are being done have been increased from 31 to 125. Dengue, seen mainly due to the change in climate, is not that much of a deadly disease. However, if those with fever do not seek treatment in time and refrain from maintaining hygiene, it can get serious,” the minister added.