Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala

Karkala, Aug 15: Fever cases are on the rise in Karkala taluk with the recent decrease in rainfall. Residents from municipal and rural areas are reporting symptoms of cold and fever. Patients are seeking treatment at PHCs, the taluk hospital, and private clinics.

Stagnant water in several areas has led to an increase in mosquito breeding. This has contributed to the spread of infectious diseases. So far this year, 42 cases of dengue and 17 cases of leptospirosis have been reported in the taluk.

Health department officials, along with the municipality and gram panchayats, have launched special drives to control the spread and to create public awareness.

Doctors have urged people to avoid self-medication and to seek prompt medical attention for severe fever, headache, or body pain. Self-treatment with over-the-counter drugs, including antibiotics, can cause complications, they said.

Authorities have stressed the importance of cleanliness. Residents are advised to remove stagnant water from tyres, plastic containers and buckets, and to store food properly. Special attention is being given to labour colonies, construction sites and quarry worker settlements.

Municipal president Yogeesh Devadiga said sanitation workers are ensuring that no water stagnates and that mosquito breeding is prevented. Traders and the public are being urged to maintain hygiene in and around their premises.