Health and Family Welfare State Minister Dr. M A Muhith on Saturday said that public health improvement is not possible solely through hospital construction, government initiatives or the efforts of doctors unless people are made aware and actively involved.

He said the government will take initiatives to control dengue by engaging and raising awareness among citizens with the cooperation of all city corporations, including the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC).

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The state minister made the remarks while inaugurating a rally organised by DNCC marking the launch of a three-month programme to control the spread of Aedes mosquitoes through mosquito eradication and public awareness activities.

DNCC Administrator Md. Shafiqul Islam Khan also spoke as the session chair, saying that the three-month programme undertaken by DNCC would help control the dengue situation in the city through public awareness and coordinated efforts.

The minister said that successful programmes such as the immunisation of two crore children against measles were achieved in a short time due to public participation and cooperation. Similarly, if everyone considers dengue control a personal responsibility, changes daily behaviour, and keeps surroundings clean while making others aware, dengue can be prevented and controlled.

The rally was attended by the state minister, DNCC administrator, Prime Minister’s health assistant and research officer, leaders of Gulshan and Banani societies, DNCC officials and employees, and people from all walks of life.