Despite chill in air, dengue cases continue to pour in

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, November 22

Although there is a nip in the air, but the cases of dengue and chikungnya are still being reported every day. As many as 10 dengue cases were confirmed today. The total number of patients affected with dengue this year has risen to 1,017. The Health Department has asked city residents to be careful of mosquitoes and take preventive measures to prevent vector-borne diseases.

District epidemologist, Dr Ramesh, said although there was a chill in the air after the recent rainfall, with ensuing sunny days the temperature had gone up a little bit, which in turn had provided ample conditions for breeding of mosquitoes.

“Cases of dengue and chikungunya are still being detected. Although their number has gone down, they have not stopped altogether. We are hopeful that with the start of next month cases of dengue will stop coming,” he added.

He said the people should take preventive measures as there was still scope of misquotes breeding during this season.

“The department is still carrying on with its programmes to make people aware regarding dengue and high risk areas,” said Dr Ramesh.

“Once the temperature goes below 22°Celsius then the chances for mosquito breeding are bleak. People should not allow water to stagnate in and around their houses. Water in pots should be changed regularly,” he added.

Symptoms/precautions 

• The symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, vomiting, skin rashes, and mild bleeding.
• Coolers should be dried before stopping their use. 
• Mosquito repellent and creams should be used.
• Anti-mosquito spray should be used daily, especially behind curtains and below tables.
• Change water from water pots kept in drawing rooms every week.
• Don’t keep uncovered utensil, pots, tyres etc on the roof top or in the open as dengue mosquito breed in clean water. 
• Don’t allow fresh water accumulation near houses.
• Test for dengue is done free of cost at the Civil Hospital, Ludhiana.