Dengue on the rise, warn experts

The state health department and experts from National Institute of Virology (NIV) admitted to a spurt in the number of dengue positive cases. A six-month-old boy succumbed to dengue on Thursday.

Experts said that even though a spurt in cases is expected this season due to water accumulation, intermittent rains and fluctuation in temperature, there is a need for increased vigilance on part of people.

Dr Pradeep Awate, state epidemiological officer, admitted that the number of dengue cases across the state had increased with a majority of them being reported from Pune district. “Until May-end, there were eight dengue-related deaths of which four deceased were from Pune. Since June, two more deaths have been reported in the city. Even the number of cases this year are more compared to last year and people should observe precautions,” he said.

NIV’s deputy director Dr Manju Chaddha admitted to an increase in number of positive reports but said there is no need to panic.
“It is expected in this season. There are four types of dengue circulating viruses which doesn’t mean increase in severity of cases but more dengue-related activity,” she said.

According to NIV’s weekly update, there have been 75 confirmed cases of dengue from January to June of which 14 cases were reported in one week between June 14 and June 20.

According to Pune Municipal Corporation’ statistics, there have been 35 dengue cases and 15 malaria cases this month alone within civic limits. “While the civic body has started anti-larval measures, dengue mosquito breeds in clean water and is a day- biting mosquito. Hence, people should not allow water to stagnate, collect water and keep vessels uncovered, check for water near air-conditioners and pots. It is equally important to report cases of fever and body ache early,” said Vaishali Jadhav, acting medical officer of health (MoH).

Experts said besides keeping their premises clean, people should ensure correct solid waste disposal and improved water storage practices, including covering containers to prevent access to egg-laying female mosquitoes. Asked on what could be a warning sign, experts said high-grade fever with headache and body pain, feeling of fatigue with nausea should make one suspect something amiss.

Keep the disease at bay
Observe one day in a week as ‘dry day’, when all utensils and tanks are emptied and cleaned.
Deny mosquito chance to breed
Check for all sources of stagnant water, especially fresh water such as plates of plants, flower vases, AC trays, gully traps, unused toilet bowls, concrete drains
Change water in flower pots routinely