Day 5: (Oct 8, 2012) : Vector Control Unit

We had done our theory session on the Vector control program with PPKP Yusof Eating. The main objective of vector control unit is to control the spread of the diseases by eliminating the vectors.

Functions of this unit:
1. Prevent the occurrence of dengue cases
2.To control dengue outbreaks
3. Prevent re-occurrence of Dengue Fever in priority localities
4. Improve Malaria prevention and control activities, especially foreigners
5. Prevent the spread of Malaria to the local population

Organization Chart of VBDCP 

 


In 2012, the dengue cases in Pendang was quite high. The dengue cases were the highest in week 22 and week 25, it was mainly due to the rainy season that creating many potential sites for the Aedes mosquitoes to breed, hence the incidence of dengue increased.


Similarly, Vector-borne diseases can be notified via computerized system, the E-notifikasi. Other methods of notification are as follow:

 





 

Vector control program is very crucial in reducing the number of dengue cases in Pendang. There were a few activities were carried out by the unit to control the number of vectors. Aedes survey was a field trip/operation carried out by the health officers to find out any houses that had breeding sites for Aedes larva (determined by index such as Aedes index....). If an house area was having a high Aedes index, the unit will consider and plan a fogging in that particular area in near future because it was a potential place that was having impending risk of dengue outbreak. Fogging is the adulticiding program which targeted only the adult mosquitoes. Abating & larvaciding are the control of the number of mosquitoes by killing their larvae, it can be done by using chemicals,i.e. the ABATE or biological method such as the use of Bacillus thuringiensis. Law enforcement played an important role in reducing the number of vectors as well. For those who found breaking the law (e.g. there were lots of pots, bins....that contains clear stagnant water which act as the breeding site for mosquitoes) will be compounded with an amount of money not more than RM500. They can make an appeal to the District Health Office to get a reduction in the compound. They were given two weeks time i.e. 14 days to make the payment, if not they will be sued in the court.