Tiruchi Corporation steps up surveillance after spike in seasonal illnesses

With the city receiving substantial rainfall over the past few days, the Tiruchi Corporation has intensified its surveillance efforts to prevent a potential outbreak of monsoon-related diseases.

According to sources, Tiruchi recorded over 1,600 fever cases and four dengue cases in the past month. Doctors said the increase in fever cases in the city was linked to seasonal flu.

In response, the Corporation has formed an integrated surveillance team to monitor and control the spread of fever and dengue. The team is tasked with collecting health data from government and private hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and urban primary health centres (UPHCs) to enable the swift identification of hotspots and targeted interventions.

When a fever case is reported, a follow-up investigation is conducted to determine whether the illness is water-borne, vector-borne, or food-borne. Based on the findings, preventive measures such as fogging, anti-larval operations, and special health camps are launched in the affected areas.

The Corporation has deployed around 350 domestic breeding checkers to conduct door-to-door inspections across all wards. These workers are checking households, commercial establishments, construction sites, and plots for mosquito-breeding sources and ensuring their removal.

A dedicated 25-member fogging team, equipped with portable fogging machines and high-capacity fogging trucks, was operating across the city. Simultaneously, public health workers are engaged in disinfection of public places with bleaching powder, chlorination of drinking water, and inspection of pipelines for leaks.

Special fever camps are being conducted in areas with a spike in cases. Health camps are held at all UPHCs morning and evening, every day. In addition, nilavembu kashayam is being distributed through health and wellness centres.

A senior health official said the surveillance and control measures were being prioritised in vulnerable and densely populated areas. Early detection and swift response are key to breaking the transmission chain and preventing escalation, he said.