By KT Reporter
Residents of Namule, Igola, and Angorom, Getom Sub-county in Katakwi District, have called on the government to conduct routine indoor residual spraying and redistribute mosquito nets, citing a surge in mosquitoes in swampy areas such as Micoka and Aibapet.
According to residents, including Abdalah Okeris, malaria remains the leading cause of disease and death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant women. They urged that mosquito nets be distributed quarterly in high-risk areas to prevent malaria.
Residents also highlighted that mosquitoes contribute to other public health risks, including lymphatic filariasis, yellow fever, Zika virus, dengue, and chikungunya, calling for a coordinated government response.
During the recent launch of Bactivec and Griselesf biolarvicide in Katakwi—donated by the Republic of Tanzania following lobbying by Vice President Rtd Maj Jessica Rose Alupo—the Assistant District Health Officer, Christine Atim, noted that malaria prevalence in the district remains high.
She said that out of every 10 patients seen at OPD, 5 test positive for malaria, highlighting the need for regular net redistribution under the Universal Net Distribution Program.
Dr. Alfred Mubangizi, Assistant Commissioner for Vector-Borne and Neglected Transmitted Diseases at the Ministry of Health, said the government is committed to disease prevention and public health, expressing concern over preventable illnesses that continue to affect communities.
He added that, in addition to existing interventions such as indoor residual spraying and net distribution, the Ministry has introduced Laveside in high-malaria districts. This larvicide targets mosquito larvae in breeding sites, including stagnant water and bushy areas. Mubangizi also urged residents to use mosquito nets appropriately and avoid using them for fishing.
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