New Delhi: With the onset of monsoons, there has been a spike in the cases of vector-borne diseases such as Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya in Mumbai and Delhi. According to the data released by the civic health department, Mumbai has noticed a spurt in Malaria, Dengue and Chikungunya cases in the last fortnight. The last week’s data in Delhi showed that 18 days of rain in August and above-normal monsoon rainfall led to waterlogging cases in various places. Due to this, the civic body in Delhi reported a rise in cases of mosquito breeding with the number of dengue cases in the city so far already past the 500 mark.
In August, 1,013 cases of dengue were recorded, while the number in August 2023 was 999, reported TOI. The report further noted that BMC registered 1,080 cases of malaria in August 2023 while 1,171 cases were found this August. In the case of Malaria cases, the numbers rose in the second fortnight to 616 as against 555 in the first fortnight.
Explaining the major cause behind such the jump in cases, Dr Anish Pillai Lead Consultant- Neonatology and Paediatrics, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, Mumbai told News9, “Mumbai is seeing a recent surge in cases of dengue, malaria and chikungunya this season. Although this rise is seen all across the country, Mumbai is particularly affected due to its unique environment, urbanisation and the monsoon season. Being one of the most densely populated cities in the world, sanitation and hygiene are suboptimal in most informal settlements and slums. The waste management and water storage practices in Mumbai are poor, creating large breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which are responsible for spreading these diseases.”
“The city’s ageing infrastructure struggles to keep pace with its growing population. The heavy rainfall and waterlogging this season have contributed to the rapid proliferation of mosquitoes. “The hot and humid Mumbai climate provides an extended breeding season for mosquitoes, leading to increased frequency and severity of dengue, malaria and chikungunya,” added Dr Pillai.
Ways to safeguard yourself
Dr Pillai, “Safeguarding against mosquito-borne diseases requires a combination of personal protection and environmental management. Wear long-sleeved shirts, full pants, socks, and shoes to minimise skin exposure while leaving your home. Use mosquito repellents over the skin or clothing while travelling. Ensure mosquito nets are installed on windows and doors, and preferably sleep under a mosquito net if living in an area of high mosquito activity. Remove areas of stagnant water in and around the house including containers that can hold water, such as buckets and flowerpots. Spread awareness about the prevention of these diseases in your community, and seek medical help promptly in case of any suspicious symptoms.”
According to the data released by the civic health department, Mumbai has noticed a spurt in Malaria, Dengue and Chikungunya cases in the last fortnight. Expert explains the major behind the sudden jump in cases? Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
