The Union Health Ministry has issued a nationwide directive urging all states to intensify surveillance and preventive action against vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. This advisory follows weeks of heavy rain and flooding that have left multiple states facing increased risks of outbreaks in the post-monsoon period. Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda stressed that state governments must remain on high alert and take urgent precautions to safeguard public health.

Shri Nadda in his official communication asked State Health Ministers to closely review preparedness measures and personally monitor the ground situation in their regions. He directed that detailed action plans should be submitted within 20 days to outline strategies for controlling possible outbreaks. Local bodies, including municipal corporations and panchayats, have been instructed to mobilise campaigns for spreading awareness about personal protection, maintaining hygiene, and eliminating mosquito breeding grounds.

The advisory has made it clear that hospitals under both central and state governments must ensure adequate preparations by stocking up on medicines, diagnostic kits, and hospital beds. An additional focus has been laid on keeping hospital campuses mosquito-free. The Centre also convened a high-level meeting to review the dengue threat in Delhi and the National Capital Region, stressing the need for coordinated responses before the peak transmission period begins.

India’s Progress

India’s fight against malaria has shown remarkable results in recent years. Between 2015 and 2024, the country recorded a 78 per cent fall in both malaria cases and deaths, as highlighted in the latest government records. More than 160 districts across the country have reported zero malaria cases, showcasing the impact of national programmes and community participation. This progress has been flagged as a model in public health management, but experts warn it could be quickly undone without consistent effort.

The Health Minister reiterated that India’s target of becoming malaria-free by 2030 can only be met if state governments and communities remain vigilant in the wake of climatic challenges. Increased rainfall and waterlogging can create ideal environments for mosquito breeding, thereby putting urban and rural households at risk. While official data reflects success in control programmes, the on-the-ground situation calls for regular monitoring, supply of resources, and prompt treatment facilities to prevent setbacks.

The government’s strategy to address the concerns includes working closely with public health institutes, voluntary organisations, and resident welfare associations to create a culture of prevention. Educational drives and public announcements are also being pushed to remind citizens of the easy yet effective practices of mosquito control, such as clearing stagnant water, covering household containers, and ensuring waste management in neighbourhoods.

How to Build Immunity in a Natural Way?

While the government stresses environmental and health infrastructure measures, doctors and health experts also suggest strengthening body resistance against mosquito-related illnesses. Simple dietary habits and home remedies are considered effective support systems in this regard. Fruits rich in Vitamin C such as guava, kiwi, and oranges are strongly advised, as they help improve immunity through antioxidant functions. These nutrients bolster natural defences, making the body more resilient against infections.

Several traditional remedies also continue to play a role in Indian households. Turmeric milk and giloy juice, endorsed for their anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory properties, are being highlighted as dependable natural reinforcements. Recently, studies referenced in the National Library of Medicine indicate that papaya leaf extract may help support platelet stability, proving to be particularly useful in managing dengue conditions, though it is not a cure in itself.

Hydration, too, forms a strong line of defence. Coconut water, herbal teas, and fresh juices allow the body to flush toxins and maintain cell health. With a stronger immune balance, health systems suggest that communities can reduce vulnerability to mosquito-borne diseases, even in high-risk weather conditions.

The Ministry has underlined that while scientific advancements and improved infrastructure are critical to disease control, sustainable success lies in joint ownership of the issue at every level. From administrative surveillance to households ensuring clean environments, collective responsibility remains the foundation for a healthier, mosquito-free India.

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