Vol. 3, Issue 4, Part A (2016)

Author(s): G Praveen, BK Tyagi, Nirmal Joe and Manisha Bias Thakur

Abstract: An outbreak of dengue fever occurred in the coastal Nagapattinam and adjoining Thiruvarur and Thanjavur districts of Tamil Nadu during late October-early November, 2012. An-depth investigation was made into the reasons attributable to the spread of dengue in these districts, both urban and rural settings, between 23^rd and 27^th November, 2012. Till 22^nd November a total of 299 cases and 2 deaths in Nagapattinam district and 612 cases with 3 deaths in Thanjavur district were reported due to dengue. An increased trend in dengue cases was observed from September to November, with all the age groups affected. High entomological indices along with eco-bio-socioeconomic factors such as unprecedented rainfall, construction sites, abandoned houses and boats, tyres and coconut shells were the major reasons for sudden abundance of Aedes mosquitoes. Robust monitoring and surveillance activities, along with control measures, by the district authorities kept the disease spread under check by effectively strengthening both case management and laboratory support, on one hand, and regularly organizing interactive co-ordination meetings at all levels to sensitize people through IEC and awareness programmes as well as source reduction of Aedes mosquito breeding.