71 malaria cases this year so far, more than double last year’s count

Ludhiana is witnessing a concerning rise in malaria cases this year, marking the highest tally in eight years, even as dengue remains relatively under control. With 71 malaria cases reported this year so far — more than double last year’s count — the district Health Department has intensified surveillance and prevention efforts.

In contrast, dengue cases have stayed comparatively low at 60, thanks to proactive campaigns and early intervention. The contrasting trends have prompted health officials to focus on both containment and community awareness to curb the spread of vector-borne diseases.

Travel history has emerged as a key factor in the reported malaria cases as 18 patients had recently visited states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and 34 are migrants from other states, at present residing in Ludhiana.

Civil Surgeon Ramandeep Kaur said: “We’ve deployed 325 teams across Ludhiana to monitor and control vector-borne diseases. Urban zones have received 56 breeding checkers due to higher population density.”

In Ludhiana city, 25 Health Department teams and 25 NGO teams are actively inspecting mosquito breeding grounds, supported by 50 anti-larvae squads conducting daily inspections.

Officials attribute the malaria spike to increased rainfall and waterlogging, which have created ideal mosquito breeding conditions.

“Stagnant water in coolers, containers and open spaces is a major concern,” said a health official.

Dengue cases remain relatively low at 60 so far, compared to 474 last year. To prevent a surge, the district administration has ramped up its ‘Har Shukarvaar, dengue te Vaar’ campaign.

Health teams have visited 25,905 houses and checked 54,901 containers, of which 186 were found positive for mosquito larvae. Larvicide spraying was carried out in affected areas in collaboration with the Vishav Manav Ruhani Kendra.

The Civil Surgeon emphasised the importance of public cooperation: “Residents must keep their surroundings clean and avoid water stagnation,” she said. Dr Pragati from the district administration and Dr Sheetal Narang from the Health Department are personally supervising field activities, stressing timely inspections and immediate destruction of breeding sites.

District Epidemologist Sheetal said: “Community participation is key. Simple steps such as using mosquito nets, wearing full-sleeved clothing and maintaining hygiene can go a long way.”

As Ludhiana braces for the post-monsoon season, health officials remain vigilant, determined to curb the spread and protect public health.

Malaria vs dengue

Malaria and dengue are both mosquito-borne diseases, but they differ in cause, symptoms and transmission. Malaria is caused by a parasite (plasmodium) transmitted through the bite of the anopheles mosquito while dengue is caused by a virus spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Malaria often leads to recurring high fever with chills, body aches and sweating, whereas dengue typically presents with sudden high fever, severe headache, joint pain and sometimes a skin rash. Unlike malaria, dengue can progress to a more serious form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever, which may cause internal bleeding and low platelet count. Early diagnosis and prevention are key to managing both.