Dengue outbreak in B'luru: Rising cases call for urgent measures, experts give insights

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: In recent months, Bengaluru has witnessed a concerning rise in Dengue cases, particularly impacting women and children.

Reports from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) indicate a sharp increase, with 1320 cases registered from January to June this year alone. Tragically, the city reported two suspected Dengue-related deaths recently, underlining the severity of the situation.

The victims included a 24-year- old resident of Kaggadasapura near Indiranagar and an 80-year-old cancer patient from Tamil Nadu, highlighting the vulnerability of diverse age groups to this mosquito-borne illness.

Experts attribute the surge in cases to increased mosquito exposure, particularly in low-lying areas prone to water stagnation, ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Dr Alok Kumar M K, a consultant pediatrician and neonatologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, emphasised that children, especially toddlers and infants, are at higher risk due to their weaker immune systems and heightened exposure to mosquitoes.

Symptoms of Dengue include fever, body aches, diarrhoea, vomiting and rashes , with severe cases manifesting as abdominal pain, reduced urine output, and bleeding.

Timely medical intervention is crucial, focusing on hydration and nutritional support for milder cases. Preventive measures such as mosquito repellents, longsleeved clothing, bed nets, and eliminating standing water around homes are strongly recommended to curb mosquito breeding.

Dr Nagaveni R, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, HRBR Layout, highlighted the heightened risks Dengue poses to pregnant women. Complications can range from preterm birthto low birth weight, though birth defects are relatively uncommon.

Pregnant women are advised to prioritise mosquito bite prevention through repellents and protective clothing. Monitoring symptoms like high fever and joint pain is crucial, as timely diagnosis and treatment adjustments are essential during pregnancy to avoid complications.

Dietary measures to boost immunity and ensure hydration are recommended to mitigate the severity of Dengue infections. In response to the escalating Dengue cases, BBMP plans to intensify efforts by surveying 12 lakh households in vulnerable areas.

This proactive approach aims to identify and address mosquito breeding sites promptly, reinforcing community awareness and participation in prevention efforts.