By ARUN PRATAP SINGH
DEHRADUN, 3 May: The number of dengue cases in Uttarakhand is rising rapidly, prompting concerns among health officials. The hospitals across the state and in particular in the districts in the plains, are witnessing an increase in patients suffering from seasonal diseases. According to the sources, the number of Dengue cases have already exceeded last year’s figures. So far, 41 cases have already been confirmed, surpassing the total number reported last year. If this trend continues, dengue cases in the current year could pose a serious challenge. The Health Department has assured that all necessary steps are being taken to curb the spread of the disease.
It may be pertinent to remind here that the Dengue and Chikungunya, both borne of mosquito sting, tend to be more prevalent during the summer and the monsoon seasons, with Uttarakhand, particularly Dehradun, witnessing a notable impact. According to information available from the Health Department, till May 2, 24 patients from Dehradun and 17 from other districts and states have so far tested positive for dengue. However, the reassuring development is the fact that 31 patients have already recovered, while 10 remain under treatment in hospitals. In response to the rising cases, the Health Department has issued comprehensive guidelines focusing on source reduction. The Municipal Corporations and other local bodies have been directed to ensure regular cleaning, drain maintenance, fogging, removal of waterlogging, and proper garbage disposal. Asha workers have been trained and deployed to carry out field activities aimed at mosquito control.
Director General of Health Sunita Tamta, emphasised that source reduction plays a crucial role in preventing Dengue outbreaks. The department has identified areas where a high number of Dengue cases were reported last year and is prioritising preventive measures in those locations. Aanganwadi workers are also conducting door-to-door awareness campaigns to educate residents on ways to prevent mosquito breeding.
Dehradun’s Chief Medical Officer Manoj Kumar Sharma informed that 1,200 beds have been reserved for Dengue patients in government and private hospitals across the city. He assured that more beds can be arranged if required. Contingency plans are also being developed at Dehradun District Hospital and SPS Hospital, Rishikesh, to tackle a potential surge in cases.
While the number of cases was higher in April, the infection rate appears to have slowed down, with one or two cases being reported daily. No specific hotspot has been identified yet, but containment activities are underway in areas where new cases have emerged. Meanwhile, Dehradun Mayor Saurabh Thapliyal acknowledged that Dengue has arrived earlier than expected this year, prompting swift action from the Municipal Corporation.
He claimed that the Dehradun Municipal Corporation has deployed 130 small fogging machines and four large machines across wards, schools, and colleges. At present, five anti-larva teams are operational, with plans to increase the number to ten to intensify mosquito control measures.
In previous years, Dengue cases have varied significantly.
It may also be recalled that in 2024, only 34 cases were reported, whereas 1,201 cases were registered in 2023, with 13 deaths. The year 2022 saw 1,434 cases, while 126 were recorded in 2021. In 2019, Dengue cases soared to 4,991, leading to six fatalities. The symptoms of Dengue include high fever, stomach pain, frequent vomiting, cough, difficulty in breathing, dry mouth, red eyes, irritability, weakness, cold hands and feet, occasional changes in skin colour, and rashes. In case of these symptoms, consulting a doctor immediately is advised.
Health experts recommend maintaining cleanliness both indoors and outdoors to prevent dengue. Residents are advised to clear areas prone to water accumulation, such as tyres, bottles, cans, coolers, and drains. Sleeping under mosquito nets and installing mesh screens on windows and doors can help reduce the risk of infections. Wearing full-body-covering clothes during the monsoon season is also essential to minimise mosquito bites.
