
Dengue Awareness Workshop: Connecting Communities II
In combating neglected diseases like dengue, in countries like India where the disease burden remains significant, community engagement plays a key role. Recognizing this, the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) India Foundation, in collaboration with King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow, organized a workshop titled ‘Dengue Jagrukta Karyashala: Samuhik Bhagidari, Sabki Jimmewari’ on 29 April 2024, in Lucknow.
Attended by over 150 frontline health workers, medical professionals, and community representatives, the workshop facilitated discussions on various aspects of dengue, including vector bite prevention strategies, symptom recognition, and appropriate actions for suspected cases. During the workshop, frontline workers – Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) discussed the challenges of dengue prevention and potential responses, emphasizing their role as ‘leaders of change’ within the community.
“Realizing that community engagement brings the maximum impact in eradicating diseases in rural areas, activities are being planned, keeping women at the center stage. Activities are being undertaken to build awareness about Dengue and its implications on overall family health,” Dr Monica Agarwal, Professor and Head, Community Medicine, KGMU Lucknow highlighting the significance of community engagement as one of the central themes in needful interventions for Dengue.