The dengue crisis in India has reached alarming levels, with various states and cities experiencing a surge in cases. Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, has seen a sharp increase in dengue cases, with over 1,100 new cases reported in just the past week. The neighboring Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation area has also been severely affected, with consistent reports of over 300 cases for three consecutive weeks.
Other districts in West Bengal, such as Nadia, Murshidabad, and North 24 Parganas, have also been identified as dengue hotspots. The state government is taking special measures to control the spread of the virus in these areas, including increased testing and treatment.
In Mumbai, there has been a surge in both dengue and malaria cases due to sporadic rainfall providing ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has issued advisories urging residents to take proactive measures to prevent mosquito breeding.
The state of Bihar is also grappling with a rising number of dengue cases, with the capital city Patna reporting the highest number of new cases. Government hospitals in Bihar are currently treating a significant number of dengue patients.
Trichy, in the district of Trichy, has established a dedicated dengue ward in response to a rise in cases. This move aims to provide specialized care for patients and prevent further transmission of the virus.
Puducherry has reported dengue-related fatalities, prompting the formation of a high-level committee to investigate the deaths and implement preventive measures.
Kerala, which initially saw a decline in dengue cases, is now experiencing a resurgence. The state has recorded a significant number of suspected or probable cases, along with several deaths. The cyclical nature of dengue outbreaks and changing weather patterns make it challenging to predict and control the spread of the disease.
Punjab’s Mohali district has also been hit hard by dengue, with a significant increase in cases compared to the previous year. Health workers are conducting inspections and taking measures to eradicate mosquito breeding sources.
In Calangute, Goa, there has been a surge in suspected dengue cases, leading the local panchayat to initiate a free testing program. Preventive measures, including pesticide spraying and elimination of breeding sources, are being implemented to curb the spread of the virus.
To address the dengue crisis, it is crucial for authorities, healthcare professionals, and the public to collaborate in implementing preventive measures. This includes maintaining cleanliness, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, seeking medical attention for symptoms, and adhering to disease management protocols. Timely data sharing and resource allocation between the central and state governments are also essential in effectively combating the outbreak. With collective action and increased awareness, India can better manage and eventually overcome this health crisis.