Mangalore: Bolar ward in Mangalore, a high risk area for malaria, has reported 5 cases of dengue. Three of these cases belong to one family. However the reporting mechanism introduced by the MCC has failed as none of the Labs who tested these patients reported the same to the MCC.

The system of reporting was introduced on August 21st. As per the system, the lab is required to send an SMS to a specified phone number, when it discovers positive cases of malaria or dengue so that health workers can actively prevent further cases in the area.

In the instant cases, Sagar, an 18 year old was found positive by a lab in falnir, followed by Manoj (18), his neighbour who was found positive for dengue at a private hospital. Manoj’s mother Neela Ramesh also tested positive for dengue followed by his sister, 16 year old Tanmaya, all of whom are undergoing medical treatment. Another resident of the area shashirekha (30), who was diagnosed of dengue on August 28th has recovered. 

Till date no health workers have visited the area according to Nitin Bhandary, Sagar’s father.  He had, on Monday brought to the notice of the MCC the issue of stagnant water in the adjoining site, but no action has been taken as yet.

Mayor Mahabala Marla has said he would look into the issue. The Bolar ward councillor, Ratikala, too,  has promised to look into the complaints and take necessary action.