In order to ensure malaria prevention, timely treatment, and improved health and nutrition for children in Bilaspur district, Collector Mr. Sanjay Agarwal today inspected the malaria-affected villages of Aurapani, Navadih, and Majhgaon and the Majhgaon Sub-Health Center in Kota Block. He directed officials from the Health, Education, and Women and Child Development departments to work in coordination and prioritize malaria control, malnutrition eradication, and regular health monitoring.
During the inspection, officials reported that three children with Plasmodium falciparum (PF) malaria were identified in Aurapani village and one in Navadih. All children received primary treatment and were referred to SIMS Bilaspur for better treatment. The Collector visited the Majhgaon Sub-Health Center and inquired about the health of the children admitted there and directed doctors to ensure intensive surveys, timely testing, and quality treatment in the affected areas. Collector Mr. Agarwal also inspected schools and Anganwadi centers in Majhgaon and Aurapani villages. He instructed teachers and Anganwadi workers to visit their homes to determine the reason for any child's absence from school or the Anganwadi center. He instructed teachers and Anganwadi workers to immediately inform the health department and arrange for treatment if necessary. He also instructed them to encourage children and pregnant women to adopt a nutritious and balanced diet, especially the locally nutritious "Tricolor Food."
During the inspection of the Anganwadi center, the Collector reviewed in detail the condition of severely malnourished children. He visited the home of a severely malnourished child, discussed with the family, and encouraged them to take the child to the Nutrition Rehabilitation Center (NRC) in Ratanpur for better treatment and nutrition management. The family agreed to take the child to the NRC the next day. The Collector educated the family on the importance of a balanced diet, regular health checkups, and proper care of children.
During the inspection, the Collector directed that if any symptoms of seasonal illness are observed in any village, the health department should be immediately informed and necessary treatment and preventive measures should be taken. He said that for the protection of public health, all the departments will have to work with continuous monitoring and coordination. On this occasion, SDM Kota Shri Pravesh Paikra, CMHO Dr. Shubha Garewal, District Malaria Officer, Malaria Consultant, Block Medical Officer, BPM Kota, concerned supervisor, CHO, RHO, Mitanin, village sarpanch and officers and employees of various departments were present.