Dengue larvae found in Mohali schools, health dept ramps up checks

By Admin

18 Oct, 2025

Dengue prevention efforts have intensified across Mohali after dengue larvae were detected in several schools during a recent health department survey. The discovery has prompted authorities to urge schools to strengthen cleanliness and mosquito-control measures immediately.

Rising Concern Amid Ongoing Campaign
Since January this year, Mohali has reported 93 dengue cases significantly lower than the over 1,500 cases recorded in 2024. However, the presence of mosquito larvae in educational institutions has sparked renewed concern. The inspections were conducted under Punjab’s ongoing ‘Every Friday, Fight Dengue’ campaign, which involves routine checks in public and private premises to eliminate breeding sites.

School Inspections and Awareness Drives
Teams consisting of nursing students and ASHA workers visited various government and private schools to inspect classrooms, rooftops, and water containers for possible mosquito breeding grounds. Civil Surgeon Dr. Sangeeta Jain stated that while larvae were found, the teams also conducted awareness sessions for teachers and students.

“Every drop of stagnant water can become a breeding ground for the Aedes aegypti mosquito,” Dr. Jain explained. “Schools must ensure that coolers, pots, buckets, and tanks are emptied and cleaned regularly.” She emphasized that dengue mosquitoes thrive in clean water and bite during the day, making frequent inspections of school premises crucial.

Expanded District-Wide Checks
Following the discovery, the health department has intensified its anti-dengue drive. House-to-house checks are being carried out, and challans are being issued wherever negligence is detected. “The Punjab government has directed strict monitoring, and our teams are working daily to prevent the spread,” Dr. Jain added.

Sustained Preventive Measures Needed
District epidemiologist Dr. Anamika, who supervised the school inspections, highlighted that dengue cases typically surge between July and November. “Awareness is the first line of defence. Children should be taught to cover water containers and avoid letting water accumulate in pots or coolers,” she said.

Dr. Jain further reminded residents that dengue testing and treatment are available free of cost at government hospitals, and citizens can seek assistance through the health department’s helpline number 104.

Understanding Dengue and Its Symptoms
Dengue fever is caused by the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding from the gums or nose. Early diagnosis and proper hydration are vital to managing the illness effectively.

As authorities continue inspections under the ‘Every Friday, Fight Dengue’ campaign, residents and schools alike are urged to take proactive measures because every clean container and every drop of eliminated stagnant water counts in keeping dengue at bay.