Chennai: Tamil Nadu Health Minister Arun Raj has appealed to the public to actively cooperate with the government’s dengue-control efforts, stressing that the state is determined to ensure there are no deaths due to dengue.
He said dengue spreads through Aedes mosquitoes that breed in clean, stagnant water that collects during the rainy season. Due to climate-related changes, dengue incidence has risen even before the onset of the monsoon, with many people being affected daily.
In an interview, the minister said dengue infections are lower compared to last year and that the spread is currently under control in Tamil Nadu. However, he underlined that sustained public participation is essential to keep the disease in check.
He called on residents to work with officials during mosquito-control and surveillance activities and to ensure that water does not stagnate near homes. The minister said 17,000 dengue cases have been confirmed in the state so far this year.
He also said inspections related to mosquito control will be carried out, including studies to assess whether topical mosquito repellents are effective.
