Imphal, Oct 30 (NationPress) An additional 129 individuals have been confirmed to have dengue, raising the total count of vector-borne infections to 3,594 for the year, as reported by officials on Thursday.

In a statement from S. Priyokumar Singh, the State Malaria Officer under the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, it was noted that 3,594 cases of dengue have been documented this year, with one patient succumbing to the illness in Bishnupur district.

Singh highlighted that adherence to the protocols established by the central NVBDCP has been ongoing since January to combat the dengue outbreak within the state.

As per the data from the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control, 2,463 cases of dengue were reported in the previous year (2024), along with five fatalities attributed to the viral infection.

The report from the Health and Family Welfare Department indicated that the 3,594 confirmed cases were identified between January 1 and October 28 this year, from a total of 7,883 individuals tested.

Among the 16 administrative districts that comprise both valley and hilly areas, Imphal West recorded the greatest number of cases at 2,507, followed by Imphal East with 655, Bishnupur with 102, Thoubal at 84, Senapati with 63, Kakching at 45, Ukhrul with 44, and Chandel with 25.

The districts most affected include Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, and Thoubal, all located in the densely populated Imphal Valley, while Senapati, Kakching, Ukhrul, and Chandel are situated in the mountainous regions.

Interestingly, the mixed-population district of Jiribam, adjacent to southern Assam, has only reported one case of dengue thus far.

The sole dengue-related death occurred in Bishnupur district, as per the report. Another representative from the Health and Family Welfare Department stated that, following NVBDCP guidelines, the department is collaborating with various agencies to mitigate the disease's spread.

The official emphasized that the increasing incidence of dengue cases, particularly in the Imphal valley region, raises significant concerns regarding the disease's proliferation. The surge has been linked to extended monsoon rains and stagnant water, which create optimal breeding conditions for the Aedes mosquito.

In response, the Health and Family Welfare Department has amplified vector control strategies, including fogging operations and public awareness initiatives throughout affected regions.

Municipal authorities and the Urban Development Department have called upon residents to maintain cleanliness, eliminate stagnant water, and utilize mosquito repellents and nets to prevent further transmission.

Officials are also advising individuals exhibiting symptoms such as high fever, body aches, and rashes to seek prompt medical attention to avert complications.