Following recent rains, water accumulation has been reported across various locations in the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) area, raising concerns about the potential spread of insect-borne and infectious diseases. Municipal Commissioner Mangesh Chitale has issued an appeal to citizens to remain vigilant and adhere to the preventive measures outlined by the Municipal Corporation.

To combat the risks associated with post-monsoon conditions, the Municipal Corporation has dispatched a letter to all housing societies in the area, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to avoid insect-borne diseases. Societies reporting cases of insect-related illnesses are instructed to disseminate the guidelines provided by the municipal authorities to their residents. Additionally, any such information must be communicated to the Municipal Corporation via email at idsppanvelcorporation@gmail.com.

Private laboratory owners in the municipal jurisdiction have also been mandated to report cases of insect diseases to the same email. Non-compliance will result in action from the Municipal Corporation, as stated by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Vaibhav Viddate.

In an effort to monitor and control disease spread, the Municipal Corporation is conducting regular house-to-house surveys. These surveys include container inspections, fever assessments, and construction sector evaluations.

In September alone, surveys were conducted in 55,072 households across 15 Civil Primary Health Centres, inspecting approximately 179,796 containers. During these inspections, mosquito larvae were discovered in 357 containers, which have since been disposed of. Furthermore, a special survey campaign involving students from GD Pol and Yerala Medical College in Kharghar yielded 5,888 house surveys and inspections of 10,901 containers, with contaminated items destroyed accordingly.

 Currently, the slide positivity rate for dengue within the Panvel Municipal area remains lower than in neighbouring jurisdictions, at 4%. This year’s winter positivity rate stands at 0.7%, significantly reduced compared to last year, alleviating fears of widespread outbreaks. Authorities urge citizens to follow municipal guidelines to prevent water-borne diseases like cholera and typhoid, which can arise from contaminated water. Recommendations include boiling drinking water, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables, maintaining cleanliness around residences, and disinfecting water tanks.

To further mitigate mosquito breeding, residents are advised to eliminate stagnant water sources, including in vases, water coolers, and planters, by performing a thorough cleaning once a week. Citizens are also reminded of the importance of hygiene, such as washing hands before meals and consuming only fully cooked and fresh food. In case of symptoms such as fever, cold, or cough, individuals should seek assistance from the nearest urban primary health centre.