Integrated testing system in state soon to prevent disease spread

Thiruvananthapuram: As part of ‘One Health' initiative for epidemic prevention, an integrated testing system will be implemented in all districts to identify the cause of disease spread, said health minister Veena George.

Various departments, under the health department's leadership, are conducting joint investigations to identify the spread of diseases that can severely affect humans and to implement necessary control measures. Field-level investigations were conducted in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki districts based on operational guidelines, said the minister.

Field-level investigations were organized by involving relevant departments based on the data of reported epidemics in the districts. A state-level team was also appointed to monitor the field-level investigations. As the first phase of integrated testing was successfully completed, it will be implemented in all districts of Kerala, said George.

The aim is to investigate and identify the causes of epidemics through coordinated efforts of various departments and strengthen prevention accordingly. Field-level investigations related to diseases such as leptospirosis in Kottayam, avian flu in Alappuzha, scrub typhus in Idukki and waterborne diseases in Pathanamthitta were conducted.

Before the field-level investigations, training based on operational guidelines for officials and volunteers was imparted, and departmental coordination meetings were organized. The goal is to consolidate the findings of the field-level investigations and make necessary changes to the guidelines.

One Health is a major project in the second phase of Aardram Mission. Strong efforts are being made as part of One Health to ensure good health of animals along with humans to prevent epidemics. The aim is to prevent zoonotic diseases, including epidemics, through a One Health approach.

The centre for One Health Kerala coordinates One Health activities at the state level. Additionally, a Kerala One Health centre for Nipah research has been started at Kozhikode medical college for Nipah prevention. As part of One Health activities, training has been provided to around 250,000 community volunteers, said the minister.