174 test positive for dengue in a month
AMRITSAR: Despite the onset of winters, a sudden surge in dengue cases has been witnessed as the district health department has confirmed 244 positive cases in this year so far. Compared to last year’s 222 dengue cases, this year, the number has risen to 244 till date.
With 174 new cases reported from October 10 till now, there is an increase in dengue cases in past 30 days.
In addition to dengue, eight malaria case have also been reported. Although, the number of Malaria patients have declined from last year’s 26.
The cases of vector-borne disease — dengue — mostly occurs from July to mid November.the disease is transmitted from the bite of Aedes mosquito, which usually targets victim in the morning. These mosquitoes generally breed in dirty and stagnant water, mostly in coolers, AC trays, mud pots, uncovered buckets and water containers.
District epidemiologist officer (DEO) Dr Madan Mohan said, “The reason behind the surge is that the temperature range — between 16 to 32 degrees — is suitable for the mosquitoes to breed.” “No casualty has been reported this year due to dengue and malaria. Also, no case of chikungunya has been reported this year,” he said.
DEO said, “Owing to the hike in dengue cases, the health department has issued 267 challans of ₹500 each on spotting dengue larvae at any place. Last year, only 164 challans were issued to people after inspection.”
“We have comprised 15 teams to work for the anti–larva campaign this year. Compared to the other cities in Punjab, the situation in district is under control,” he said.“the municipal corporation (MC) and health department is continuously conducting antimosquito fogging and awareness camps at schools and villages throughout the year,” he said.the recent dengue cases patients have been reported from areas like Baba Bakala, followed by Navi Abadi area, Majitha Road, Bangla Basti and Indira Colony among areas.