Malaria Cases Surge in Parvathipuram Manyam and ASR Districts

In 2023, approximately 5,167 individuals in the tribal districts of Parvathipuram Manyam and ASR have contracted malaria, raising significant health concerns in the region. Medical and health authorities have been actively responding to the situation, with a total of 38,349 blood samples collected in ASR from January 1 to October 19. Among these, 3,231 cases tested positive for malaria.

Health Authorities Implement Response Measures

Dr. Krishna Murthy Nayak, the District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) of ASR, stated that anti-malaria kits are being distributed to affected individuals. Those who do not show improvement are referred to the Paderu Medical College Hospital. In more severe cases, patients may be transferred to King George Hospital in Visakhapatnam for advanced treatment. Dr. Nayak confirmed that anti-malarial operations are currently underway, including the innovative use of drones for spraying mosquito breeding areas.

In the neighbouring Parvathipuram Manyam district, health officials have collected 438,450 blood samples, with 1,836 positive cases identified. Dr. S. Bhaskara Rao, DMHO for Manyam, highlighted ongoing mosquito control initiatives, which include regular sanitation, designated Friday Dry Days, anti-larvae operations, and fogging activities in coordination with local Panchayat Raj and municipal departments.

Monitoring and Prevention of Other Health Issues

In addition to malaria, health officials are addressing a recent outbreak of Hepatitis A among hostel students. Dr. Bhaskara Rao confirmed that all affected students have been discharged from care and their health is being monitored daily. The outbreak is believed to be linked to heavy rains and subsequent illnesses among students returning home after the Dasara festival.

To combat these health challenges, Dr. Rao emphasized the importance of collaboration between various departments. Medical personnel are stationed at all primary health centres, and referrals are made to Community Health Centres (CHCs), area hospitals, and district hospitals as necessary. Health officials are particularly vigilant in monitoring the health conditions of students living in hostels.

To date, blood tests have been conducted on 12,975 students across all hostels in the district, revealing that 358 students have been diagnosed with common fever and five with malaria. To enhance safety, anti-mosquito meshes are being installed in hostels, and separate accommodations for ill students have been arranged to ensure proper care.

Through these comprehensive measures, health authorities aim to effectively manage and reduce the impact of malaria and related diseases in the Parvathipuram Manyam and ASR districts.