Water accumulation in residential and public spaces is creating breeding grounds for mosquitoes
PMC has reported over 400 suspected dengue cases and 14 chikungunya cases in August alone. Dr Rajesh Dighe, assistant health officer, PMC, said, “So far this year, we have recorded 1,231 suspected dengue cases and 47 confirmed positive cases. Additionally, 21 chikungunya cases have been reported so far this year. Patil, consultant physician at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, said, “Of the total patients visiting our OPD, 15–20% are testing positive for dengue. Dr Vineet Rao, consultant, internal medicine, Jupiter Hospital, said, “We are seeing many people visiting the hospital only after 3–4 days of fever and weakness, sometimes after self-medicating at home.
Whenever a positive patient is reported, the PMC sends a team to conduct containment activities around the patient’s residence to prevent further transmission.
Physicians said patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or cancer, are at higher risk for complications and often require hospitalisation. Dr Nakul Pathak, paediatric intensive care and emergency consultant at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, said, “For fever and pain, paracetamol is preferred until dengue is ruled out. Pune : As the monsoon rains take a pause, stagnant water is fuelling mosquito breeding across the city. Meanwhile, private hospitals have noted a steady rise in infections across all age groups. Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified anti-larval drives and fogging in identified hotspots to counter mosquito breeding. Since the monsoon began, our teams have been deployed on the ground. In contrast, the majority of dengue and chikungunya patients are currently being treated on an outpatient (OPD) basis. Dr Dattatraya B. Chikungunya cases are also surfacing. Most dengue patients present with high-grade fever, pain behind the eyes, headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, and loose motions. Patients with low blood pressure, profound weakness, dehydration, altered sensorium, breathing difficulties, or bleeding manifestations, along with those having low platelet counts or comorbidities, may require admission. ” Doctors also cautioned against delaying medical consultation. By then, we have to look beyond just the fever. Health experts emphasised the importance of early testing, bed rest, hydration, and a nutritious diet. Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen should be avoided, as they can significantly increase the risk of bleeding in dengue patients. ”