Chennai[Tamil Nadu]:Dengue cases are on the rise across Tamil Nadu with the onset of the monsoon, prompting the state government to intensify mosquito-control and disease-surveillance measures.
According to the state health department, 244 people out of 1,320 tested across Tamil Nadu have been confirmed to have dengue. Nearly 200 cases are reportedly being detected daily.
As of September 15, Tamil Nadu had recorded 16,577 dengue infections and nine deaths. Chennai remains among the worst-affected districts.
In Chennai, 156 people suffering from fever were admitted to hospitals in a single day, with 87 subsequently testing positive for dengue.
Several other districts, including Chengalpattu, Coimbatore, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Salem, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Thanjavur and Villupuram, have also reported a high number of cases.
The state government has deployed more than 25,000 workers across Tamil Nadu to strengthen preventive measures. The teams are working to eliminate mosquito-breeding sources, carry out sanitation activities and monitor fever cases in vulnerable areas.
District administrations and health officials have been directed to step up preventive measures and ensure timely treatment of patients.
Health Minister Arun Raj said dengue cases had shown a marginal increase over the past seven days, while urging people not to panic. The public has been advised to prevent water stagnation in and around homes and seek medical attention in case of persistent fever.
Meanwhile, Naam Tamilar Katchi chief coordinator Seeman alleged that negligence by the TVK government had contributed to the rise in cases. He also demanded large-scale distribution of nilavembu decoction and kabasura kudineer at places where people gather in large numbers.
Concerns also emerged at Anna University following the death of a student, Harish Kumar, after persistent fever. His death came four days after the deaths of students Mridula and Jayashree, causing anxiety on the campus. However, the Directorate of Public Health clarified that Harish Kumar did not have dengue and died of scrub typhus.
Amid the rising dengue cases, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories is collaborating with Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceutical to introduce Qdenga, described as India’s first dengue vaccine, in the first half of next year. The vaccine is intended for people aged four to 60 and is administered in two doses three months apart. It is designed to provide protection against all four dengue virus types.
[DD News]