Meta Description : The Telangana High Court has directed the Chief Secretary to provide a detailed report on the measures being taken to combat swine flu, highlighting concerns over inadequate healthcare facilities and urging improvements to protect public health.
Content : Previously, the Telangana High Court bench instructed the government to establish a high-level committee led by the Chief Secretary. This committee is tasked with closely monitoring the efforts to control and manage the spread of vector-borne diseases, including swine flu, dengue, and other epidemics. The committee is required to submit weekly progress reports to the court every Thursday, detailing the measures undertaken to curb the outbreaks.
The court emphasized that the committee should evaluate the need for specialized tools like mounted fogging machines, power sprayers, and knapsack machines, which are essential for effective disease control in major cities and towns across the state. In response to the court’s directive, the government constituted a nine-member committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary and comprising heads of various departments. This committee is responsible for assessing which areas require immediate attention and devising a strategic plan for disease eradication.
Furthermore, the committee will consult with experts to determine the necessary quantity of equipment and the manpower required to effectively combat the spread of these diseases. As mandated by the court, the committee’s recommendations will be binding on the state government, ensuring accountability and commitment to implementing effective solutions.
During a recent hearing, State Advocate General B.S. Prasad presented a report outlining the steps taken by the government to manage and eliminate vector-borne diseases, specifically dengue. However, Advocate K. Pavan Kumar, representing Dr. Karuna, pointed out that the authorities have not been utilizing available resources effectively, particularly in creating public awareness. He emphasized the need for more proactive use of print, electronic, and social media to inform citizens about preventive measures and precautions against these diseases.
The court also acknowledged reports of swine flu cases emerging from different parts of the state, raising concerns about the government’s preparedness as the incidence of swine flu is expected to increase with the onset of winter. After reviewing the report and hearing the submissions, the bench expressed concern over the adequacy of the current measures and emphasized the importance of a robust, proactive approach in combating the seasonal rise in swine flu cases. The court’s directives highlight the urgency of coordinated action and enhanced public health infrastructure to safeguard the state’s population.