By Swastika Sahu
According to data from the health department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the city reported 32 confirmed and 285 suspected dengue cases in the first two weeks of September, representing the highest monthly total of the year.
The monsoon period, characterized by rainfall, elevated humidity, and variable temperatures, has led to an increase in vector-borne diseases throughout Maharashtra, with Pune district reporting the highest count of dengue cases this year, as Hindustan Times reported.
This year, PMC has recorded 1,699 probable dengue cases, 83 verified dengue cases, and 20 verified Chikungunya cases. Water accumulation in various areas of the city from the sporadic rain over the last few weeks has led to an increase in dengue cases.
Dr. Rajesh Dighe, the assistant health officer at PMC and leader of the vector-borne disease control initiative, mentioned that health officials and Malaria Surveillance Officers (MSI) are examining housing societies, chawls, and public spaces to eliminate mosquito breeding.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) observed a notable rise in cases within Pune city over the past two months. Between July and August, the city documented 39 confirmed dengue cases, 1,113 suspected dengue cases, and seven confirmed chikungunya cases.
In August, the total reached 28 cases of dengue and five cases of chikungunya, representing the highest monthly count for this year so far.
Dr. Santosh Sontakke, a consultant neuro-physician at Ruby Hall Clinic, told Hindustan Times that, “Approximately 50 to 60% of patients who claimed to have recovered from chikungunya continue to experience joint pain and neuropathic pain.” This encompasses sensations like tingling, numbness, sharp pain, and various sensory disruptions that may persist for a long time, greatly affecting their quality of life.
2024 has also experienced a troubling increase in the quantity of dengue infections across the state of Maharashtra, presenting a major risk to the health of the public. As per the records from the State Health Department, over 2500 patients were reported to be impacted by dengue by September of the previous year.
With dengue nearing critical levels, increased public awareness and preventive actions are vital for controlling the epidemic.