BENGALURU
The Karnataka Health Department has decided to establish special MLA-led committees across all constituencies to manage and control infectious diseases effectively.
Former Health Minister UT Khader announced the new measures following a comprehensive review meeting with health officials. The decision aims to improve local action and strengthen the state’s public health emergency response system. Local legislators will now lead constituency-level health committees to catch disease outbreaks early and coordinate quick action.
Additionally, the state is actively recruiting lab technicians and pharmacists to fill crucial staff gaps. The government has also created a fast communication network to share urgent health updates across all districts immediately.
Health decisions announced:
- Airport Screening: Strict health checks are active at state airports for travelers arriving from African nations, including Congo and Uganda, due to global Ebola concerns.
- Positive Progress: Malaria cases have dropped by 70%, while dengue cases fell by 33% compared to the same period last year. Door-to-door surveys are ongoing to prevent mosquito breeding.
- Private Hospital Rules: Private facilities must report all infectious disease cases to the health department and follow strict rules to avoid overcharging patients.