Panel discussion on malaria held

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 17: quot;Educating the people and enlisting their active participation is essential for the success of anti-malaria drive in the country.quot; The statement was made by Dr Amar Pal, Secretary, Municipal Corporation, while inaugurating the panel discussion on prevention and control of malaria held here today.

Experts from Government of India, Punjab, Haryana, Army, Indian Air Force and Central Reserve Police Force were present on the occasion. Among the topics discussed were impact of change in ecosystem on the transmission of malaria, expansion of slums and labour colonies 8211; a challenge for the water borne diseases 8211; and role of community in prevention and control of malaria.

Despite the decline in malaria cases in the country, the panelists expressed concern over the haphazard expansion of slums which lack in basic amenities and are thereby prone to water borne diseases.

The panelists were of the view that for effective control of malaria the concept of quot;early diagnosis, prompt treatmentquot; should be followed rigidly. It was also suggested that religious leaders, teachers, children be involved in the anti-malaria drive.

The discussion was attended by Kanhiya Lal, Senior Deputy Mayor, MC, Joginder Singh, Director, UT Health Services, Dr M.K. Garg, Director Malaria, Haryana.