New Delhi, April 12: Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda on Wednesday directed health officials to conduct regular supervisory visits to hospitals to check the preparedness against vector-borne diseases, and if needed, provide on the spot technical guidance.

 
 The decision was taken after 79 new cases of chikungunya and 24 cases of dengue were reported in the national capital since January 1.
 
 These cases were reported though the season for vector borne diseases in Delhi is between July and December.
 
 The minister has also asked the health officials across the country to intensify Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns on prevention and control of the vector borne diseases. 
 
 Nadda on Wednesday held a meeting of health officials to check the preparedness against vectors in the central government hospitals.
 
 According to the ministry, advisories have already been sent to all states for strengthening their preparedness before the dengue season.
 
 Nadda also directed the officers to review the preparedness of the states through a video conference.