People asked to be cautious as dengue cases soar

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The progression of Dengue cases over the past few months in Bengaluru paints an interesting picture. In June 2023, the BBMP reported that there were 690 cases reported, setting a baseline for what was to come.

The following month, July 2023, saw a notable increase with 1,649 cases, indicating a 140% rise from the previous month.

As of August 5th, 2023, the numbers climbed further to 2,065 cases, showing a 24% increase from July.

With the worst of monsoons yet to come, it is important for people to stay safe and prevent being affected by this easily spreadable disease.

According to Dr Senthilkumar, “Dengue is a major public health concern, especially in urban slums. Mosquitoes breed and multiply easily in these areas during the rainy season.”

In areas that are easily prone to Dengue preventive measures should be taken by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the local authorities.

They need to conduct anti-larval works, such as fogging and using pyrethrum. Dr Senthilkumar suggests that local authorities can also provide mosquito-repellent creams and nets to the people, and create awareness about the disease in urban slums.

Dr Senthilkumar suggests, to prevent dengue, it is important to take preventive measures such as wearing full-sleeved shirts and pants, using mosquito repellent, and sleeping under a mosquito net.

It is also important to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by emptying and covering water containers and disposing of tires and other items that can collect water.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of dengue can range from mild to severe. Some people may experience only fever, myalgia, and joint pain. Others may develop more severe symptoms, such as hemorrhagic manifestations, which can lead to shock and organ impairment.

Dr Senthilkumar urges people to seek immediate medical attention in case they are facing any of the symptoms and he said, “Although there is no specific treatment for dengue, the doctor can give you fluids and medications to help relieve your symptoms.”

What you can do?

Individuals should check their water storage weekly. Especially in urban slums where water scarcity is common, so people often store water for domestic purposes.

They use drinking water frequently, but they keep water in containers for other uses. In addition, they should check and clear the water stored in the fridge box, where mosquito larvae can easily grow, on a weekly basis.

Individuals should also check the environment around their homes. They can clean coconut shells, where rainwater collects, to prevent the production of larvae and breeding.

Because of the population, urban areas are more prone to dengue outbreaks. People can use mosquito repellent creams and nets to protect themselves from mosquito bites.