Sirmaur grapples with dengue, about 1,500 cases registered

Nahan, August 27

The relentless surge in dengue cases within Sirmaur district has become a significant cause for concern among health authorities.

With about 1,500 cases reported this season, the situation has put immense pressure on medical professionals. Despite assurances from the Health Department that the situation is under control, hospitals, particularly the Medical College in Nahan, continue to see a steady influx of dengue patients.

Nahan town, which serves as the district headquarter, has become a hotspot for the outbreak, with the majority of cases emerging from the Amarpur locality. The Health Department is actively working to raise awareness among the local population, yet the increasing number of cases has stretched their resources thin.

This year, the dengue outbreak has surpassed the numbers recorded in the district during previous two years. Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Ajay Pathak said dengue typically spreads rapidly between July and November. Around 852 cases were reported in 2022 and 1,044 in 2023. With the current trajectory, it is feared that the number of cases could soon exceed 2,000.

The CMO reassured the public, stating, “There is no need for panic. Although we have seen an increase in cases, no patient has developed severe complications and most are being treated on an outpatient basis. Importantly, there have been no fatalities due to dengue in the district so far.”

To combat the outbreak, 20 teams have been mobilised to conduct door-to-door visits in the affected areas. In Nahan, a dry day is observed once a week to eliminate mosquito-breeding grounds. The teams also check households for stagnant water, which is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and educate residents on preventive measures.

Dr Pathak emphasised the importance of community participation, stating, “People must take preventive steps on their own. Dengue is a preventable disease, but success depends on public cooperation.”

The issue of the rising dengue cases was also addressed during the recent district planning, development, and 20-point programme review meeting in Nahan, chaired by Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan. The minister instructed the Health Department and Nahan Municipal Council to take appropriate measures, including fogging, to control the spread of dengue in the town.

Symptoms

• Sudden onset of fever with chills
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• In severe cases, bleeding from the nose, mouth, and gums

Prevention

• Do not allow water to collect in or around homes
• Maintain cleanliness in the surrounding areas
• Store water in covered containers
• Regularly change water in coolers, flowerpots etc
• Wear clothing that covers most of the body
• Use mosquito repellents, sprays, or mats