Surge in Dengue cases prompts intensified measures across Karnataka

Team Udayavani, Jun 19, 2024, 9:09 AM IST

Bengaluru: As the monsoon season takes hold in Karnataka, the state has witnessed a dramatic rise in dengue cases, sparking concern among health officials. Over the past 15 days alone, a staggering 1,000 cases of dengue have been reported statewide, including in the capital city of Bengaluru. Tragically, one fatality has been confirmed due to dengue in Sagar, located in the Shimoga district.

Comparing this year’s statistics to the same period last year reveals a troubling trend: while 2,000 dengue cases were reported from January to June 16 last year, the figure has more than doubled this year, with 4,885 individuals testing positive for the virus.

In response to this alarming increase, the Karnataka health department has escalated its efforts to control the spread of dengue. Under the leadership of the Mission Director of NHM, extensive measures are being implemented. These include daily door-to-door visits by health workers such as Arogya staff and Asha workers, rigorous monitoring of confirmed cases in district hospitals, and targeted awareness campaigns in areas facing water scarcity.

Key districts bearing the brunt of the outbreak include Mysore, which leads with 377 reported cases, followed by Chikkamagaluru with 346 cases, Haveri with 272 cases, Shimoga with 236 cases, Chitradurga with 229 cases, and D.K. district with 211 cases.

In light of these developments, the health department emphasizes the importance of early detection, prompt treatment, and community awareness to curb the further spread of dengue. Efforts are also underway to ensure the availability of necessary testing kits and treatment drugs across the affected regions.

The concerted efforts by health authorities underscore their commitment to tackling this public health challenge amidst the backdrop of an intensifying monsoon season in Karnataka.