Dengue Risk Increases in Maharashtra: Cases Surge by Over 150% Compared to Last Year

As the monsoon approaches, Maharashtra is witnessing a significant increase in dengue cases. From January to May 7 this year, 1,755 confirmed cases of dengue have been reported, marking a one and a half times increase compared to the same period last year, which saw 1,237 cases. The most affected areas are Palghar, Kolhapur, Akola, Nanded, and Solapur districts.

During the first five months of this year, the state recorded 1,27,140 suspected dengue cases, a substantial rise from 81,731 suspected cases in the same period last year. The total number of suspected dengue patients tested across the state this year stands at 1,88,834. Notably, there have been no dengue-related deaths reported this year, whereas one death was reported in the same period last year, according to Radhakishan Pawar, Joint Director of the Health Department.

Palghar district has emerged as the hotspot with 174 confirmed cases, followed by Kolhapur with 117 cases, Akola with 71, Nanded with 58, and Solapur with 51 cases. Among municipal corporations, Mumbai leads with 285 cases, followed by Nashik with 79, Kolhapur with 45, Sangli with 41, and Panvel with 38 cases.

Health Department’s Public Awareness Initiative

To combat the rising dengue cases, the Health Department has declared June as Winter Resistance Month under the National Pest Control Programme. This initiative aims to raise awareness about winter fever, dengue, chikungunya, Zika, Chandipura, and elephantiasis. The department has also prepared a micro-action plan for the prevention of insect-borne diseases, emphasizing community education and proactive measures to control mosquito breeding.

Dr. Pawar stressed the importance of public participation in these efforts, stating, “Awareness and preventive measures are crucial to controlling the spread of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. We urge everyone to take the necessary precautions and support our initiatives to ensure a healthier community.”

Measures to prevent disease

Patient survey

Drug spray

Destruction of mosquito breeding sites

Training of ASHA volunteers

Public awareness about local cleanlinessDistrict wise cases of dengue

Palghar – 174

Kolhapur – 117

Akola – 71

Nanded – 58

Solapur – 51

With the onset of the monsoon, the state is bracing for further challenges in controlling the dengue outbreak. The health authorities are intensifying their efforts to mitigate the risk and ensure timely medical intervention for affected individuals.