The association representing public health inspectors has raised an alarm, asserting that the vital role played by these frontline workers in implementing dengue control activities at the grassroots level is being consistently overlooked, even as the dengue disease spreads across the country like an epidemic.
Despite the designation of 65 dengue risk zones nationwide in the current dengue control program, the association laments that public health inspectors are excluded from key activities, including dengue programs, training workshops, projects, and awareness initiatives. This exclusion, they argue, hampers the effectiveness of preventive measures on the ground.
The association emphasizes that the diligent efforts of public health inspectors, who actively seek and eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, should be acknowledged and integrated into the broader dengue control strategy. They point out that the absence of these inspectors from workshops results in a disconnect between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation, as those attending these events may not actively participate in on-the-ground prevention activities.
Furthermore, the association highlights a serious concern—public health inspectors’ names are not included in any circular issued by the National Dengue Control Program. This omission raises fears about the ability to communicate crucial information to these frontline workers, who play a pivotal role in safeguarding the public from epidemic diseases, including potential future threats like Covid.
The union is calling for urgent attention to rectify these oversights and stresses the need for a collaborative approach that recognizes and involves public health inspectors at all levels of dengue control efforts.
