Is Pollution Causing Respiratory Illness in Delhi? 68,411 Cases and 10,819 Hospital Admissions in 2024

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Is Pollution Causing Respiratory Illness in Delhi? 68,411 Cases and 10,819 Hospital Admissions in 2024

Synopsis

The alarming rise in air pollution in Delhi has led to a surge in acute respiratory infections. With over 68,000 reported cases in 2024 alone, the health implications are dire. This article delves into the government's findings and health advisories aimed at mitigating these issues.

Key Takeaways

  • 68,411 cases of ARI reported in 2024 in Delhi.
  • 10,819 hospital admissions linked to respiratory issues.
  • Government launched ARI digital surveillance in 2023.
  • Data from six major hospitals in Delhi highlights the alarming trend.
  • Health advisories are issued annually to combat air pollution effects.

New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) The escalating levels of air pollution are leading to a significant increase in acute respiratory infections (ARI) in the capital, with 68,411 cases and 10,819 hospital admissions reported in 2024, according to the government’s statement in Parliament on Tuesday.

In a written response during the Rajya Sabha session, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, provided insights into the rising air pollution and its link to respiratory diseases in urban environments.

Air pollution is among the primary triggers for respiratory ailments and related health issues,” Jadhav stated.

The Minister highlighted that the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) conducts ongoing surveillance of illnesses related to air pollution through a network consisting of over 230 sentinel surveillance sites across 30 states and Union Territories.

Moreover, in August 2023, the government initiated Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) digital surveillance via the Integrated Health Information Portal (IHIP).

He presented ARI surveillance data from six sentinel locations in Delhi: AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, LHMC Group of Hospitals, RML Hospital, NITRD Hospital, and VPCI Hospital.

The data indicated that in 2022, a total of 67,054 cases were reported to the emergency departments at these six sites, with 9,878 requiring hospital admission. In 2023, the number of cases surged to 69,293, while hospital admissions slightly decreased to 9,727, the Minister noted.

However, Jadhav emphasized that “there is no definitive data in the country to establish a direct link between death or disease and air pollution.”

“The health impacts of air pollution are influenced by a combination of factors, including dietary habits, workplace conditions, socio-economic status, medical history, immunity, and genetic predisposition,” he clarified.

The Ministry of Health also provides annual health advisories regarding air pollution to all states to assist them in preparing for related health challenges at all healthcare levels nationwide.

Furthermore, the health sector’s preparedness and response strategies concerning air pollution and health-related issues, such as Air Quality Index (AQI) reports, are communicated to states to enhance their preparedness and response strategies, the Minister added.

Point of View

It is imperative to highlight the urgent need for action against rising air pollution and its health impacts. The data underscores a significant public health concern that transcends political boundaries, necessitating a unified response from all stakeholders to safeguard the health of our citizens.
NationPress
19/08/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is causing the rise in respiratory illnesses in Delhi?
The surge in respiratory illnesses in Delhi is primarily attributed to escalating levels of air pollution, which are known to trigger acute respiratory infections.
How many cases of acute respiratory infections were reported in 2024?
In 2024, Delhi reported a total of 68,411 cases of acute respiratory infections.
What measures is the government taking to address air pollution?
The government has launched digital surveillance of acute respiratory infections and issues annual health advisories to states to better prepare for health issues related to air pollution.
Is there a direct link between air pollution and hospital admissions?
While air pollution is a significant factor for respiratory ailments, there is currently no conclusive data establishing a direct correlation between air pollution and hospital admissions.
What are the long-term effects of air pollution on health?
Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, cardiovascular diseases, and other serious health issues, influenced by various individual factors.