City faces surge in dengue as BBMP identifies 30 hotspots

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: Bengaluru is grappling with a rise in dengue cases, with the daily count increasing from an average of 200 to 225-230 cases.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the city's civic administrative body, has pinpointed 30 hotspots across the city where the outbreak is most intense.

These hotspots are identified when two or more dengue cases are reported within a 100-meter radius and are updated regularly based on new case data, BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Girinath explained. Currently, the BBMP has identified 300 dengue hotspots within its jurisdiction.

These areas are dynamic, being added when new cases are reported and removed when no active cases are present, Girinath added. To combat the spread of dengue and malaria, the BBMP has launched a distribution campaign for neem oil and DEET cream in high-risk slum areas.

Neem oil is recognised for its natural insect-repellent properties, while DEET cream provides extended protection. Additionally, the BBMP is expanding its efforts by acquiring 30 new fogging sprayers, complementing the existing 530 machines and 500 sprayers.

The increase in cases has also led to the recruitment and training of additional staff to meet the heightened demand.