Dengue Test Price Capped At ₹600 Amid Rising Cases In Pune; State Warns Labs Against Overcharging
Dengue Test Price Capped At ₹600 Amid Rising Cases In Pune; State Warns Labs Against Overcharging
Pune | June 20, 2025:
In response to the rising number of dengue and chikungunya cases this monsoon, the Maharashtra government has reiterated its directive capping the price of dengue ELISA tests at ₹600. The order, which has been in place since 2016, aims to ensure affordability and prevent patients from being overcharged by diagnostic labs and hospitals.
Despite the cap, authorities say many labs continue to charge between ₹800 and ₹1,100 per test, deterring people from undergoing timely diagnosis. Taking serious note, the state health department has issued fresh circulars to all government and private healthcare providers, directing strict adherence to the price limit.
Reinforcing the state’s directive, Dr. Nina Borade, Chief Health Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), confirmed that all registered private labs and hospitals in Pune have been notified. “We request citizens to report any hospital or lab charging above the ₹600 cap. Affordable testing is critical, especially during the monsoon when dengue cases rise,” she said.
Complaints can be filed by emailing [email protected] or calling 020-25501215.
As of mid-June, Pune has reported 169 suspected and 8 confirmed dengue cases, alongside 8 chikungunya cases. With the early monsoon intensifying the threat, the government’s move is aimed at curbing infection through timely and affordable diagnosis.
