Dengue and Chikungunya Cases Surge In Pune, Platelet Demand Shoots Up
Dengue and Chikungunya Cases Surge In Pune, Platelet Demand Shoots Up
The city is witnessing a significant rise in dengue and chikungunya cases, leading to an unprecedented demand for platelets. In the last two months, 1,443 suspected dengue cases were reported, with 97 testing positive. The increasing patient load has put pressure on blood banks, struggling to meet the demand for platelets.
According to officials, the Sassoon Hospital blood bank prepares around 100 bags of platelets daily, but the stock is depleting rapidly, lasting only two days. Currently, only 50 platelets are available. To address the shortage, blood donation camps are being organized regularly.
“The demand for blood, platelets, and red cells has increased significantly,” said a doctor from a city based hospital’s blood bank. “We require 100-125 bags daily, but our stock is falling short.” Blood banks in the city are coordinating efforts to provide platelets to patients.
Director of Jankalyan Blood Centre, Dr. Atul Kulkarni talking to a news agency, emphasized that efforts are underway to supply blood and platelets to more patients. “The demand for blood, red cells, and platelets has increased over the past few days, and we’re working to meet this demand.”
The situation highlights the need for increased blood donation and awareness about the importance of platelet transfusions. Platelets can be stored for only five days after isolation from blood, limiting stockpiling.
Residents are urged to come forward and donate blood to help bridge the gap between supply and demand. Blood donation camps will continue to be organized to support the city’s medical infrastructure.
As the monsoon season persists, the risk of vector-borne diseases remains high. Citizens are advised to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses and support the city’s healthcare system by donating blood.
