New Delhi: The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has issued a directive to all schools, both government and private, to intensify anti-malaria efforts throughout June in preparation for the monsoon season. This initiative aims to control and prevent the spread of malaria through proactive measures within the school environment and the wider community.
This advisory reinforces a previous circular from April 15th, outlining strategies to combat vector-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and malaria.
The DoE is urging district directors of education and school administrators to actively implement the prescribed activities to ensure effective malaria prevention and, ultimately, eradication.
Aligning with the Ministry of Health’s ambitious goal of eradicating malaria in India by 2030, the annual “Anti-Malaria Month” in June serves as a crucial pre-monsoon campaign. This initiative seeks to heighten community awareness, encourage widespread participation, and sustain consistent preventative measures.
Key actions mandated for schools include regular inspections to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by preventing water stagnation on school grounds. Furthermore, schools are instructed to prominently display informative “dos and don’ts” regarding malaria prevention in visible locations, ensuring that students, staff, and visitors are well-informed.
Beyond environmental measures, the DoE emphasizes the importance of education and awareness. Schools are encouraged to sensitize staff members about vector-borne diseases and leverage social media platforms to disseminate vital prevention messages.
Additionally, the circular recommends health talks and interpersonal communication activities to further educate the community on effective prevention methods. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to protecting the health and well-being of Delhi’s students and residents.