Rise in dengue cases and viral diseases worries doctors

The intermittent rains coupled with fluctuating temperatures have led to rising cases of monsoon ailments in Mumbaikars. According to figures obtained from Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), September saw the highest number of dengue cases this monsoon.

Last week, 54 dengue cases were recorded in the city and 14 people tested positive for swine flu. Between September 2 and 8, BMC’s epidemiology department recorded 38 dengue cases, as compared to 25 cases between August 26 and September 1.

Dr Om Srivastava, infectious disease consultant at Jaslok, Saifee & Kasturba hospitals, said, “Dengue patients are showing low white blood cell counts and low haemoglobin level. The platelet count dips mostly on the fifth day after the onset of the disease. We saw this pattern in some cases last year but this year, it is more prevalent.”

Doctors said the number of cases reported during this time of the year seem to be higher than in the corresponding period last year. “Intermittent rainfall and changing weather are two of the several factors leading to rise in dengue cases. People should not delay if they have any symptoms of dengue and must consult a doctor,” said Dr Khusrav Bajan, intensivist at PD Hinduja hospital.

Swine flu not alarming
Doctors say that swine flu is not something to be alarmed about. “People with co-morbid factors like diabetes, hypertension or having low immunity should take more care. We are also seeing gastroenteritis and more viral forms of respiratory diseases, apart from dengue,” said Dr Pratit Samdhani, consultant physician at Jaslok hospital