Jharkhand Launches Statewide Malaria Drive After Four Deaths in East Singhbhum

Ranchi: The Jharkhand government has issued a statewide alert and stepped up anti-malaria measures after four people reportedly died from the disease in East Singhbhum district.

Taking serious note of the situation, Additional Chief Secretary of the Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Department, Ajay Kumar Singh, on Wednesday directed all deputy commissioners to immediately implement comprehensive malaria prevention and control measures across the state.

Districts reporting malaria cases have been instructed to prepare and execute emergency action plans, strengthen disease surveillance, and ensure accountability at every administrative level.

The Health Department has ordered Multipurpose Health Workers (MPWs) to conduct intensive field surveys in fever-prone areas. Every suspected malaria patient must be tested without delay, and treatment should begin immediately if the infection is confirmed.

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Authorities have also been directed to ensure that critically ill patients receive prompt hospital admission and appropriate medical care. Proper treatment, monitoring, and follow-up of all malaria patients have been made mandatory. Additionally, whenever a new malaria case is detected, a mass fever survey will be carried out in the surrounding locality to identify and treat any additional infections.

As part of the intensified response, village-wise malaria data will be compiled, while health workers in high-risk villages will be supplied with Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits and essential medicines. Community Health Centres have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of diagnostic kits and anti-malarial drugs, alongside intensified insecticide spraying and mosquito larval control operations in affected areas.

The government has also launched a widespread public awareness campaign to encourage early testing and promote preventive measures against mosquito-borne diseases.

To closely monitor the situation, the Health Department has introduced a three-tier review system. Weekly reviews will be held at the Community Health Centre level, fortnightly assessments will be conducted by Civil Surgeons, and monthly district-level review meetings will be chaired by the respective Deputy Commissioners.

Ajay Kumar Singh has asked all deputy commissioners to personally oversee malaria control efforts to ensure the disease is contained quickly and to prevent any further loss of life.

With inputs from IANS