Rise in dengue cases: Health Dept intensifies awareness campaign in dist

Ludhiana is witnessing a steady rise in dengue cases, with the district reporting 361 confirmed cases as of October 30, including 15 new infections in a single day.

While 35 cases remain active, 29 hotspots have been identified across both urban and rural areas. Localities such as Gurdev Nagar, SBS Nagar, Baba Deep Singh Nagar, Preet Nagar, Jassian Road, Vijay Nagar, Dholewal and Chander Nagar are under close watch.

In response, the Health Department has ramped up its awareness campaign under the banner ‘Har Shukarvaar – Dengue Te Vaar’, urging residents to inspect their homes every Friday for stagnant water — prime breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito.

Civil Surgeon Ramandeep Kaur emphasised that dengue spreads through mosquito bites during the daytime and it breeds in clean and stagnant water found in coolers, tyres, flower pots and open containers.

Health teams have been conducting door-to-door visits, school inspections and awareness lectures. Over 1,000 students at Government Senior Secondary School, Basti Jodhewal, were given information through rallies and poster exhibitions. ASHA workers and Anganwadi staff are actively spreading awareness among residents in villages and colonies.

Dr Kaur appealed to citizens to cooperate with health teams and maintain hygiene to curb the spread. “Public support is crucial to eliminate dengue,” she said.

The department has also held online meetings with NGOs to mobilise more teams, especially in urban colonies where awareness gaps persist.

All government hospitals are on an alert mode, equipped with adequate medicines, testing kits and platelets. Free services are available across health centres, ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

While Ludhiana has reported only one chikungunya case so far, the focus remains firmly on controlling dengue before it escalates further. With coordinated efforts and community participation, the district aims to flatten the curve and safeguard public health.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include high fever, body ache, headache, pain behind eyes, and skin rashes. If any of these appear, residents are advised to visit the nearest government hospital for free testing and treatment.