IMPHAL, April 25: The Voluntary Health Association of India in association with Diocesan Social Service Society, Imphal and State Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme organized a mass rally today in connection with the World Malaria Day.
According to a release of the association, around 300 students of Nursing Home, NCC cadets, MSM and members of civil organisations took part in the rally. The rally was flagged off by Thangmeiband A/C MLA, Joykishan Singh at 10 am.
The rally started from NCC Ground and proceeded through Khuyathong Crossing, JN Manipur Dance Academy, DM College Campus and finally returned to the starting point. A signature campaign was also organised as part of the observation. A Valedictory function was also held afterwards. The function was attended by Colonel MS Sharat, Deputy Commander, Imphal, NCC Group Head Quarter as chief guest and Director, DSSS Reveral Founder, Dominic Kanmi president.
Meanwhile, in another observation of the day, Imphal East deputy commissioner M Joy Singh said transmission and spread of diseases like Malaria, Dengue, Japanese Encephalitis and other water borne diseases peak during the rainy season, and we should keep our drains and residential surroundings clean in order to prevent breeding of mosquitoes and other carriers.
He was speaking at the office of the Chief Medical Officer, Imphal East which was organised by the District Health Society NVBDCP, Imphal East.
This year the day is observed under the theme `Invest in the future: Defeat Malaria.`
People should not allow water to collect around the house and maintain a clean drainage system, he said.
Giving the key-note address, district malaria officer Dr Kh Indra said Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease of humans and other animals and is caused by parasitic protozoan. It is infected by female Anopheles mosquito.
Symptoms of malaria include fever, fatigue, vomiting and headaches, he said adding that in severe cases it can lead to yellow skin, seizures, coma or even death.
The District Health Mission Society along with District Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Tamenglong also observed the World Malaria Day under the theme ` Invest in the Future, Defeat Malaria`™ at Puchig (Khebuching), Tamenglong district today with Joseph Pauline, ADM/Tamenglong attending as chief guest.
Dr Chambo Gonmei, Chief Medical Officer and District Mission Director, District Health Mission Society, Tamenglong and Dr Azin Maringmei,District Malaria Officer, Tamenglong were present at the occasion.
In connection with the observance function, the 8th Health Mela organized by District Health Society, Tamenglong under National Health Mission was held at Khebuching village.
People who came to attend the mela were done health checked up along with providing free medicines. More than 150 people were also given free urine, blood, sugar, malaria, HIV, Sputum, Ultrasound and Haemoglobin test.
Along with sensitizing on various health issues, pamphlets and leaflets were also distributed during the mela.