Rise in Dengue Cases in Tamil Nadu Following Recent Rainfall
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Chennai, Dec 10 (NationPress) The recent heavy rainfall and water accumulation in Tamil Nadu have caused a considerable increase in dengue cases.
As reported by the Tamil Nadu Health Department, the state has recorded 23,815 dengue cases so far this year.
In November alone, there was an uptick of 4,144 cases. Public health officials attribute this rise in dengue cases to the increase of Aedes mosquitoes, which flourish in stagnant water and are the main carriers of dengue fever.
The current daily count of dengue cases fluctuates between 120 to 150, with occasional spikes reaching 180. A steady rise in cases has been noted since July, with 2,766 cases reported in July, 3,994 in August, 4,347 in September, and 3,662 cases in October.
Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, the Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, cautioned that dengue cases could further escalate following the rains.
He urged the public to implement safety measures and stay vigilant to avoid the disease.
Despite the rise in cases, the number of fatalities remains relatively low.
According to the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme, 9,121 dengue cases and 12 deaths were reported in 2023.
Health officials attribute the decrease in mortality rates to medical camps and the early identification of fever cases, allowing for prompt referrals for diagnostic tests and advanced care.
Dr. Rajani Varrier, an entomologist, highlighted the necessity of seeking timely medical attention.
“In the majority of dengue-related fatalities, delays in seeking medical help have been an issue. If fever lasts for two days or more, it is crucial to undergo diagnostic investigations,” she stated.
Dr. Varrier also emphasized the need for active intervention from domestic breeding checkers and fogging teams to manage mosquito populations.
She urged the state health department to ramp up efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in the upcoming weeks, as dengue cases typically surge until January.
