Dengue and Chikungunya Cases Drop Sharply in Pune Post-Diwali: Here’s Why
Dengue and Chikungunya Cases Drop Sharply in Pune Post-Diwali: Here’s Why
Pune, November 11, 2024 – The surge in dengue and chikungunya cases that plagued Pune since July has seen a significant reduction as of November. Following Diwali, the number of cases has sharply declined, with only 58 suspected cases of dengue reported this month and no new cases of chikungunya, according to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
PMC data reveals that 4,422 dengue cases were recorded throughout the year, of which 357 were confirmed. Dengue cases spiked with the monsoon, reaching peaks in August and September with 1,150 and 1,291 suspected cases, respectively. However, as the monsoon subsided, cases began to drop; November’s figures stand at just 58.
Chikungunya cases, totaling 448 for the year, followed a similar trend. Rising gradually since July, cases reached a peak in September with 225 reported cases but have since dropped to zero in November.
The post-monsoon decrease is attributed to a reduction in mosquito breeding sites, as explained by Dr. Rajesh Dighe, Assistant Health Officer with PMC. With the end of monsoon, mosquito populations, and thus mosquito-borne diseases, naturally decline.
The PMC’s targeted mosquito control measures, including fumigation and destruction of breeding sites, have been instrumental in curbing disease spread. Additionally, PMC issued 2,416 notices and collected over ₹7.84 lakh in fines from property owners where mosquito breeding sites were found.
The decline in cases reflects the effectiveness of PMC’s proactive health interventions and seasonal mosquito control efforts.
