The Hindu : Kerala News : Steps to prevent viral diseases

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Friday, Feb 08, 2008
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Kerala

Steps to prevent viral diseases

Alappuzha to have unit of Pune NVI

THIRUVANATHAPURAM: Vector-borne viral diseases are likely to recur in Kerala this year also, Health Minister P.K. Sreemathy and experts said here on Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference, the Minister said the chances of recurrence of the disease was higher in north Kerala compared to South Kerala where people had acquired some degree of immunity. The Minister also noted that concerted efforts had begun in all wards to keep the mosquito density low and prevent the recurrence of viral diseases. She announced that a unit of the National Virology Institute (NVI) at Pune would start functioning in Alappuzha on February 20.

Dr. George Jacob, who would be in charge of the unit, said the mosquito density in many parts of the State was still above critical levels. Hence, there was possibility of another outbreak of the diseases. The climate conditions would be a determining factor. M.M. Gore, who is also from the Institute, said some equipment from Pune would be shifted to Alappuzha immediately so that the unit could start functioning at the earliest. In five years, the unit would have 20 to 25 personnel besides students and project staff. Ms. Sremathy said that space at the out-patient block of the Alappuzha Medical College at Vandanam would be made available to the unit for immediate occupation.

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