The MCD is mulling over making people aware about “mosquito proof” coolers that could be used in the next season in a bid to prevent spread of diseases like dengue and chikungunya. The “mosquito proof” cooler was developed by the National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC) in 2007.
The civic agency does not want a repeat of this year, when a record number of dengue cases have been reported, in near future.
Chairman of the MCD’s health committee, V.K. Monga, said that a major chunk of mosquito breeding takes place in air coolers being used in the homes. Estimates indicate that of all the places prone to mosquito breeding, coolers alone account for nearly 70 per cent. “The coolers are a favourite breeding spot of mosquitoes and the cause of increasing dengue cases here, we have decided to advertise about mosquito-proof coolers and its benefits. We will do much in advance before the next dengue season,” said Dr Monga. He added that people need not buy brand new mosquito-proof coolers but can get their conventional coolers modified at a minimal cost of around `500. Also, these coolers will not require harmful chemicals to be sprayed into the water.