Bhutan Joined the Global community to observe the World Health Day. The day was observed in Phuentshogling, today. This year, the focus was on vector borne diseases with the theme ‘Small bite, big threat’.
About 70 percent of the country’s total population resides in malaria risk, dengue prone and Chikengunya affected areas. Phuentsholing, in particular, being the commercial hub and a bordering town, remains prone to dengue and malaria.
The health minister, Tandin Wangchuk, while addressing the gathering said it was important for people to be aware about the diseases and methods to prevent them.
Lyonpo Tandin Wangchuk also said that while the ministry has been successful in controlling malaria significantly, there are still chances of outbreak if proper hygiene is not maintained.
As a part of the ceremony, participants from the two-day advocacy programme on vector borne diseases also presented their recommendations for controlling the spread vector diseases in the community. The recommendations included issues ranging from requirement of Thromde Health Officer to sharing of information on vector mapping in the area.
To observe the day, an awareness exhibition on vector borne diseases was also held. This was followed by a cleaning campaign in and around the town area.
