India, Sept. 11 -- With Yamuna waters gradually receding from the low-lying belts of Noida, the health department has turned its focus to prevent a possible outbreak of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, officials said on Wednesday.

"The possibility of vector-borne diseases increases only after seven to eight days of water completely receding, when mosquito breeding begins. We are already coordinating with other authorities and will be holding a meeting with the Noida authority soon" said district malaria officer Shruti Kirti Verma.

Anti-larval exercises will be taken up once floodwater fully drains out, she said, adding: "We can't spray right now because many animals are still drinking from the stagnant water. Chemicals ...