Bareilly: The Department of Veterinary Public Health, IVRI, organized a special awareness program under the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan. The program witnessed the participation of 50 beneficiaries, including a significant number of sanitation workers from Scheduled Castes, who are at higher risk of contracting vector-borne zoonotic diseases due to the nature of their work.
The session was led by Dr. Bablu Kumar, Head of the Department, with support from Dr. Himani Dhanze, Scientist. Dr. Dhanze conducted an interactive session with participants, providing vital information on zoonotic diseases, vector-borne illnesses, antimicrobial resistance, and foodborne pathogens. She emphasized the risks posed by mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas, while also highlighting preventive measures against seasonal diseases such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis, which are more prevalent during the monsoon.
In his address, Dr. Bablu Kumar expressed concern over the growing threat of mosquito-borne diseases and stressed the need for timely preventive action. He underscored that safeguarding vulnerable communities like sanitation workers requires collective effort.
As part of the program, all participants received foldable king-size mosquito nets along with informative leaflets on antimicrobial resistance, dengue prevention, vector-borne diseases, and hand hygiene. These resources were aimed at encouraging both participants and their families to adopt effective disease-prevention practices.
The sanitation workers appreciated the initiative, noting that it not only enhanced awareness about workplace safety but also encouraged healthier living practices within their communities.
Report by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena from Bareilly
