According to health officials, the Aedes mosquito breeds in clean, stagnant water and bites mostly during the day. Residents have been advised to regularly inspect their surroundings and ensure there is no accumulation of water in coolers, unused containers, flower pots, or broken utensils. Water in storage should be changed frequently and kerosene must be added to stagnant water bodies to prevent mosquito breeding. Spraying of insecticides in potential breeding areas and maintaining household hygiene have been strongly recommended.
The administration has also shared a detailed list of symptoms to help citizens identify potential cases early. Dengue symptoms include severe body ache, headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, red rashes on the skin, and in some cases, bleeding from the nose, gums, or vomiting. Black-colored stools are a warning sign of serious complications. Chikungunya, on the other hand, typically presents with sudden high fever, severe joint pain, and sometimes skin rashes.
Officials have stressed that not all fevers should be assumed to be dengue or chikungunya, but residents should seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms appear. Patients must avoid self-medication with aspirin or ibuprofen, which can worsen conditions in dengue cases. Paracetamol is considered a safer alternative and should be used only after consulting a doctor.
To strengthen the response, the administration has activated health centers including Community Health Centres (CHCs), Subdivision Hospital Ghatshila, Sadar Hospital, and MGM Medical College and Hospital in Jamshedpur for free testing and treatment of suspected dengue and chikungunya cases. Citizens can also dial the 104 helpline number for health-related advice and guidance.
“ Special attention is being directed toward vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. The public has been urged to use mosquito nets and repellents even during the daytime, which is when Aedes mosquitoes are most active,” said an official.
District health authorities have reiterated that timely diagnosis and medical care can ensure complete recovery from both dengue and chikungunya. With the monsoon season expected to continue actively over the next several weeks, the administration’s advisory serves as a crucial reminder for citizens to stay alert, take preventive steps, and seek immediate medical attention at the first sign of symptoms.
