Gujarat grappling with mosquito-borne diseases: dengue, malaria cases on rise
Updated: Sep 23rd, 2024
Gujarat is grappling with an increase in mosquito-borne illnesses, including dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. In the first ten days of September alone, the state reported over 2,650 cases of dengue, more than 2,150 cases of malaria, and 288 cases of chikungunya. Tragically, two deaths have been linked to dengue during this period.
On average, the state is witnessing 265 new dengue cases, 215 malaria cases, and 28 chikungunya cases daily. The pervasive nature of these illnesses has raised concerns, with reports indicating that nearly every household is affected by some form of viral infection or mosquito related disease.
In Ahmedabad, from September 1 to 15, a total of 282 dengue cases were reported, including 16 children aged one year or younger.
Medical staff combatting dengue
Currently, more than 68 dengue cases have been reported among hospital staff at Asarwa Civil hospital, where healthcare workers have raised multiple complaints regarding unsanitary conditions.
This negligence has led to serious allegations against hospital administration, as the unhygienic environment has put staff at greater risk for contracting dengue.
Doctors and health workers, while attending to patients, have also fallen ill. Civil hospital officials confirmed that over 20 doctors and health workers have contracted dengue, with six currently receiving treatment within the facility.
Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria in Gujarat
An analysis of dengue statistics over the past five years reveals a fluctuating trend: 1,564 cases in 2020, 10,983 in 2021, 6,682 in 2022, and 7,222 recorded so far in 2023, with an additional 893 cases noted up to June 2024.
In total, the state has seen more than 26,451 dengue cases, resulting in over 30 fatalities. Despite claims of a decrease in cases compared to last year, the current situation remains alarming.
The rise in malaria cases is also concerning, with an average of over 210 new cases reported daily, prompting 22 districts to be placed on high alert.
While chikungunya cases are lower compared to dengue and malaria, the increasing trend cannot be overlooked. In September, chikungunya cases have seen a notable increase.
Currently, government and private hospitals are witnessing a surge in patients suffering from viral infections and mosquito-borne diseases.
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