Uttarakhand State Records Highest Dengue Deaths in 5 Years: Urgent Measures Needed to Control Outbreak
Uttarakhand, a state in India, is currently facing a serious dengue outbreak. So far, over 4,000 people have been diagnosed with dengue, and unfortunately, 16 deaths have been recorded. This is the highest number of dengue deaths in the state in the past five years.
In 2022, there were 2,337 dengue cases in Uttarakhand, but thankfully, no deaths were reported. However, in 2019, the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control recorded the highest number of dengue cases in the state, with 10,622 cases and eight deaths.
The capital city of Dehradun has been hit the hardest, with 13 dengue-related deaths. Nainital district has also reported three deaths. Concerns have been raised about the spread of the virus in Dehradun, with protests highlighting the lack of fogging and the dumping of garbage in empty plots. Infrastructural activities leading to rainwater accumulation are creating breeding spots for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
It is believed that multiple strains of the virus, including the highly virulent Denv-2 strain, may be contributing to the higher number of deaths. The health department has been actively reporting dengue cases through on-ground and social networking platforms, which has led to the higher recorded number of deaths.
In addition to Uttarakhand, other parts of India are also facing dengue outbreaks. Bihar, particularly the city of Patna, has reported 423 cases in a single day. Chennai has also seen a rise in dengue cases, with several deaths reported in the past two weeks, particularly during the monsoon season.
To reduce the spread of dengue, precautionary measures such as controlling mosquito breeding grounds and raising awareness are advised. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for dengue, and patients are advised to rest and increase fluid intake.
The number of dengue cases in Uttarakhand is highest in Dehradun, Pauri Garhwal, and Haridwar. The death toll from dengue in the state has reached 16, with 13 deaths in Dehradun and three in Nainital.
Experts predict that the number of cases is expected to decline between October 15-20 as the incubation period of the virus is 4-14 days. However, it is crucial that people remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent further spread of dengue.
