District Health Department Launches Intensive Anti-Encephalitis Drive Across Rural Blocks of Varanasi
With seasonal humidity rising, the Chief Medical Officer's office in Varanasi has deployed over 250 rapid-response medical teams to rural pockets like Sevapuri and Arajiline. The campaign focuses on vector control and early fever screening.
Taking proactive measures against vector-borne illnesses, the Varanasi Chief Medical Officer (CMO) has initiated a month-long intensive health surveillance drive targeting rural blocks notorious for high mosquito densities. Focusing primarily on Sevapuri, Arajiline, Harahua, and Chiraiigaon, the district health administration has mobilized ASHA workers and auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) to conduct door-to-door screenings for acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) and malaria symptoms among children.
CMO Dr. Sandeep Chaudhary explained that fogging operations and larvicide spraying have been intensified near stagnant water bodies and handpump perimeters. “Our primary strategy is early detection and immediate referral. Every household is being supplied with chlorine tablets, and awareness pamphlets on personal hygiene are being distributed in local dialects,” Dr. Chaudhary noted. Furthermore, primary health centers (PHCs) across the district have been equipped with dedicated pediatric ward beds, rapid diagnostic kits, and uninterrupted stock of essential antipyretic drugs.
The district administration is also coordinating with the Panchayati Raj department to ensure immediate drainage correction in low-lying agricultural zones. Community leaders and village heads (Pradhans) have been roped in to organize chaupals, educating villagers on the importance of wearing full-sleeved garments during dusk and dawn. Health officials reported that no severe outbreak has been recorded yet, but preventive vigilance remains at its absolute peak.
