Archive · 5 Sep 2026
West Bengal minister urges protective school clothing during dengue season
West Bengal’s health minister wants students to wear clothes that cover their arms and legs.
He says this may help protect them from dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Schools are being asked to allow these clothes during September, October, and November.
Boys could wear full-length trousers and full-sleeve shirts.
Girls could wear salwar suits instead of skirts.
The minister said thin knee-high socks may not stop mosquito bites.
He also wants teachers and students to learn more about dengue.
People should see a doctor quickly if they develop symptoms.
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee urged West Bengal schools to permit full-sleeve and full-length clothing from September through November.
He recommended trousers and full-sleeve shirts for boys and salwar suits instead of skirts for girls.
Mukherjee said knee-high socks may not adequately protect students because mosquitoes can bite through the thin material.
He asked teachers and school principals to cooperate and increase dengue awareness among students.
The minister urged people to seek medical attention promptly if dengue symptoms develop.
- Who
- West Bengal Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee, along with schools, teachers, and students.
- What
- He urged schools to allow clothing that fully covers students’ arms and legs to help prevent dengue.
- When
- During September, October, and November; the report was dated September 5.
- Where
- Schools in West Bengal, including Kolkata as identified in the report.
- Why
- Dengue is widespread during this period, and protective clothing and awareness may help reduce cases.
- Recommended period
- September through November
- Suggested clothing for boys
- Full-length trousers and full-sleeve shirts
- Suggested clothing for girls
- Salwar suits covering the legs instead of skirts
- Minister’s view on socks
- Thin knee-high socks may not prevent mosquito bites
- Additional request
- Schools should increase dengue awareness among teachers and students
- Medical advice
- People should seek medical attention without delay if dengue symptoms develop