Rising Threat Of Insect-Borne Diseases In Maharashtra: Dengue Claims 26 Lives, Malaria 20

Pune, November 28, 2024: Maharashtra is witnessing a surge in insect-borne diseases, with dengue and malaria cases significantly affecting the population. This year, dengue has claimed 26 lives, while malaria has resulted in 20 fatalities. The highest cases of both diseases have been reported within the Mumbai Municipal Corporation limits. While Mumbai saw the most dengue-related deaths, Gadchiroli recorded the highest malaria fatalities.

As of November 21, the state reported 18,477 malaria cases, compared to 16,159 cases last year, indicating a rise in infections. Malaria deaths slightly increased from 19 last year to 20 this year. For dengue, 18,156 cases have been reported this year, compared to 19,034 last year, with fatalities dropping from 55 in 2023 to 26 in 2024, according to Health Deputy Director Dr. Babita Kamalapurkar.

Mumbai leads in malaria cases (7,043), followed by Gadchiroli (6,235). Most malaria-related deaths were recorded in Gadchiroli (11), with Mumbai reporting 5 deaths. For dengue, Mumbai had the highest number of cases (5,435) and 5 deaths.

Tripling of Chikungunya Cases
The state also recorded a sharp rise in chikungunya cases, from 1,702 last year to 5,360 this year. Although the number of cases has tripled, no deaths have been attributed to chikungunya, as per the health department’s records.

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Key Statistics:

• Malaria cases: 18,477
• Malaria deaths: 20
• Dengue cases: 18,156
• Dengue deaths: 26
• Chikungunya cases: 5,360
• Chikungunya deaths: 0

The health department continues to monitor the situation, urging residents to take preventive measures against mosquito breeding and bites.

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