A dry day was observed in households across the district as part of an intensive source reduction campaign launched by the city Corporation to tackle monsoon-related diseases. Corporation Health Standing Committee Chairperson Seena Gokulan inaugurated the campaign at Puthukkalavattom by visiting houses along with health workers.

The campaign was launched to eliminate the breeding sources of Aedes mosquitoes, which transmit dengue fever. Health workers who visited the houses explained the importance of source reduction measures and the steps that need to be taken. They also distributed pamphlets on dengue prevention.

Potted plants and indoor plants becoming a threat

Inspections carried out by health workers in various parts of the district found that plant pots in homes and the saucer trays placed beneath them to collect water have become major mosquito breeding grounds. The Health department has cautioned against the use of such trays and advised the public to avoid them as far as possible. Indoor plants grown in water, including money plants, can also harbour mosquitoes. The department has advised the public to change the water in such containers at least once a week or grow the plants in soil instead.

Officials reiterated that dengue fever can be effectively prevented only through regular inspection of premises and by ensuring that water does not stagnate. Prevention activities will continue in the coming days, the department said. Source reduction activities will be carried out every Friday in schools, Saturdays in offices, and Sundays in homes.