Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, April 25, 2025: World Malaria Day was observed today in government health institutions across the district. Health workers marked the day through rallies, quiz competitions, street plays, and various awareness activities.
Addressing the district-level event at the District Hospital Mohali, Civil Surgeon Dr. Sangeeta Jain stated that it is very important to understand the significance of this day, which is observed every year across the globe. She said that the government has set a target to completely eliminate malaria by 2030, and the health department is fully committed to achieving this goal. She emphasized that the public should also support the department’s efforts.
The Civil Surgeon further said that if symptoms of malaria fever appear, one should immediately visit the nearest health center for testing. Malaria testing and treatment are completely free in government health institutions. Advice and support can also be sought through the health department’s helpline number 104.
District Epidemiologist Dr. Anamika, while sharing information about malaria, said that malaria is a serious type of fever spread through the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito. This mosquito breeds and multiplies during the rainy season. She explained that recurring fever daily or every third day accompanied by chills and shivering, vomiting, headaches, fatigue and weakness after the fever subsides, and excessive sweating are the main symptoms of malaria.
A blood test can confirm whether a person has malaria or not, and if diagnosed, it is treatable. She advised that stagnant water should not be allowed to accumulate anywhere. Kerosene oil should be poured into standing water, and rooftop water tanks should be kept covered. People should wear clothes that fully cover the body to avoid mosquito bites. At night, mosquito nets, repellents, and creams should be used.
Present on the occasion were SMO Dr. H.S. Cheema, Dr. Vijay Bhagat, District Mass Media Officer Harcharan Singh Brar, and others.
Summary: Civil Surgeon Hardeep Singh Ghai urges public awareness to prevent and control malaria, emphasizing continued vigilance despite declining cases.