Dengue Cases Surge in Bengaluru, Prompting Urgent Health Measures

BENGALURU: Bengaluru has emerged as the epicenter of dengue fever in Karnataka, with areas under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) reporting a staggering 1,563 cases in the first half of the year. Statewide, Karnataka recorded a total of 4,624 confirmed dengue cases from January 1 to June 30, 2024.

According to data from the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Chikkamagaluru district followed with 491 cases, marking it as the second highest affected region during the same period. Mysuru and Haveri districts reported 479 and 451 cases respectively, highlighting a significant spread of the vector-borne disease across the state.

Addressing the alarming rise in Chikkamagaluru, health officials noted an 84% increase in serum sample tests for dengue. To manage the surge, dedicated dengue wards with 50 beds each for male and female patients, along with a 10-bed ward for children, have been established. The department assured the availability of essential treatments such as paracetamol tablets and IV fluids to ensure timely care for dengue patients.

“For suspected cases, treatment protocols are strictly followed in district hospitals, with serum samples sent to the district public health laboratory for confirmation,” stated a health official. Concerns over hospital overcrowding in Chikkamagaluru prompted assurances of smoother operations once the ongoing construction of a new OPD block is completed within the next 15-20 days.

In Haveri district, where two suspected dengue-related deaths were reported, the state-level audit committee confirmed one fatality due to the disease. The victim, a 10-year-old boy from Tadasa village in Byadagi taluk, passed away on April 19 at KIMS Hospital in Hubballi, two days after admission.

The rise in dengue cases has sparked heightened vigilance and preventive measures across Karnataka, with health authorities urging public cooperation to curb the spread of the disease. The situation underscores the critical need for proactive healthcare interventions and community awareness to mitigate the impact of dengue fever in the region