Dengue, viral fevers rampant in Anantapur

Anantapur: Continuous rains in the district in September had resulted in filling of drains, ponds and low lying areas. Stagnant water had become breeding ground for mosquito resulting in out-break of diseases and viral fevers including Dengue, filaria. Stink is emanating from wet garbage dumps which are also turning into mosquito breeding places.

Officials are hiding the gravity of fevers by projecting not so serious statistical figures. Recently a girl child died of fever due to delayed treatment in the government hospital. While official estimates put those suffering from Dengue fever at 95, the unconfirmed reports say that more than 600 suffer from the disease at various hospitals in 63 mandals across the district.

The Dengue mosquito referred to as Tiger mosquito is rampant in the district. Patients suffering from Dengue symptoms is 95 at District Headquarters Hospital in city. The officials of Public Health department fail to take up preventive measures and to maintain proper sanitation.

According to unofficial reports, a pregnant women succumbed to flue while being treated in Kalyandurgam hospital. Sasirekha, another infant belonging to Bukkarayasamudram died due to fever while under treatment at the PHC. Many who do not want to risk their lives are approaching private hospitals by borrowing money.

The private hospitals are making money by collecting Rs.2,000 to 4,000 for Dengue tests per patient. There is wide criticism against PHC doctors for being unavailable even in times of emergencies.

Meanwhile Minister for BC Welfare M Sankara Narayana said to The Hans India that the government will be doing everything at its command to development government hospitals and any treatment that costs more than Rs.1000 will be borne by the government under Arogya Sri.