TFP Bureau, Korba; August 31, 2024: As the monsoon season concludes, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya rises significantly due to stagnant water around homes, which becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Acknowledging this heightened threat, BALCO (Bharat Aluminium Company) has initiated a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the community on preventing these diseases.
Through its community development programs, BALCO is committed to meeting the health needs of the local population. The company’s mobile health van organized 12 awareness sessions focusing on malaria, diarrhea, and worm prevention, reaching approximately 5,500 individuals. These sessions took place in 12 schools and 18 community areas, involving 1,485 students and 4,000 community members. Additionally, about 600 Anganwadi workers and community members were educated on disease prevention in 33 Nand Ghars. The mobile health van team also made home visits, providing residents with information about the healthcare facilities available at BALCO Hospital for further medical care.
Dr. Vivek Sinha, Chief Medical Officer of BALCO Hospital, emphasized the dangers of dengue, a vector-borne disease transmitted through mosquito bites. He outlined the symptoms of dengue, which include high fever, severe headache, body pain, muscle and joint aches, pain behind the eyes, vomiting, and skin rashes. Dr. Sinha warned that dengue can be fatal if not treated promptly, as it can lead to a rapid decrease in platelet count and, in severe cases, internal bleeding.
Dr. Sinha also highlighted the capabilities of BALCO Hospital, a modern facility equipped with 100 beds and staffed by a team of specialists, including general physicians, physiotherapists, dentists, ophthalmologists, ENT specialists, pediatricians, radiologists, anesthesiologists, gynecologists, orthopedic surgeons, and nine visiting consultants. The hospital is supported by 14 resident medical officers, 60 nurses, and 113 staff members. BALCO Hospital regularly conducts check-up camps, awareness programs, and adheres to vaccination schedules prescribed by Ayushman Bharat and the government. The hospital serves over 210,000 patients annually from the districts of Korba, Raigarh, Bilaspur, and Janjgir-Champa in Chhattisgarh.
Through this awareness campaign, BALCO reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the health of its employees, their families, and the broader community, particularly during the post-monsoon season when the risk of mosquito-borne diseases is at its peak.
