Why are dengue cases increasing in TN's Krishnagiri?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Increase in dengue cases in Krishnagiri district.
- Intensified anti-dengue operations initiated by health officials.
- Daily fogging and fever camps being organized.
- Community awareness is critical for prevention.
- Consult health centers if experiencing symptoms.
Chennai, Sep 15 (NationPress) The recent surge in dengue cases in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu has led to an escalation of anti-dengue initiatives. Health authorities are implementing extensive preventive strategies to mitigate the outbreak.
District Health Officer Dr G. Ramesh Kumar reported that 48 cases were documented in August, with an additional 27 new cases confirmed within the first fortnight of September.
“In the previous month, we observed only one or two cases weekly. Currently, we are witnessing more than five cases emerging each week. Among the reported cases, eight are from Shoolagiri, five from the Hosur City Municipal Corporation, and four from Hosur town,” he elaborated.
To combat mosquito breeding, 30 Domestic Breeding Checking (DBC) personnel have been assigned to each of the district’s ten blocks. They are actively conducting daily fogging operations and managing the chlorination of water tanks. Fever camps are also being organized in high-risk areas, while companies and schools are being cleared of any discarded materials that could serve as breeding sites.
Dr Ramesh Kumar pointed out that 16 hotspot zones have been identified based on testing results, with targeted actions such as fogging, medical screenings, and awareness campaigns being executed for three consecutive days in the affected regions.
“Mobile medical units are operational at 40 locations, and between 40-50 fever camps are held daily based on the reported cases. Residents are urged to drink boiled water, refrain from self-medication, and seek immediate help from government health centers if they experience fever,” he added.
Blood samples are being collected to test for dengue, leptospirosis, scrub typhus, hepatitis A, and typhoid. The official highlighted that last year, 173 dengue cases were documented in August and 133 in September, with a total of 707 cases for the year.
“This year, we have recorded 330 cases to date, including 48 in August and 27 in September up until the second week,” he stated.
Discussing local trends, Dr Ramesh Kumar mentioned that Hosur, Shoolagiri, and Rayakottai typically report higher incidences, as many residents commute to Bengaluru for work and trade. “Nonetheless, given the decline in dengue cases in Bengaluru this year, the numbers in these blocks are also relatively lower,” he remarked.