Dengue Cases Surge in Southern and Western States
New Delhi, 2024-08-10 - Dengue cases are rapidly increasing in southern and western states compared to last year, with some northern states also reporting cases. Health Ministry Secretary Apurva Chandra revealed that states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh have witnessed a 25 to 30 percent surge in dengue cases this season. While cases have not yet increased in North India, they are expected to begin appearing in August and reach their peak by October. The Health Ministry has advised all states to implement preventive measures.
Dengue Vaccine Trial Progress
The Health Ministry recently convened a meeting with officials from Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Representatives from 18 municipal corporations in these cities also participated in the meeting via video conference. The highest number of dengue cases have been reported in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. Notably, the trial for a potential dengue vaccine is currently in its third phase and is expected to be available in the market by next year.
Dengue Epidemic in Bhopal
Dengue has become a rampant issue in Bhopal, with 32 cases reported in just eight days. Local experts attribute this surge in cases to several factors, including inadequate waste management, waterlogging, and increased mosquito breeding in urban areas.
Urban Spreads of Dengue
The number of dengue cases in metropolitan cities has been steadily increasing in recent years. This surge is attributed to densely populated areas, construction activities, inadequate waste management, and waterlogging, which provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. In 2022, India reported 2.33 lakh cases and 303 deaths from dengue, with the number increasing to 2.89 lakh cases and 485 deaths in 2023. Urban areas now contribute approximately 68 percent of all dengue cases, up from 55-58 percent in previous years.