Belagavi
Concerns are rising among residents of Belagavi district due to an increase in dengue cases compared to last year. Health officials are intensifying efforts to control the outbreak, as confirmed cases in June alone reached 68, marking a significant rise.
From January to June last year, 1,237 people were tested, with 101 cases testing positive for dengue. This year, the number of tests increased to 1,490, resulting in 177 confirmed cases, a 21% rise. Additionally, two deaths suspected to be dengue-related were reported but not confirmed.
Last year, dengue cases were predominantly reported in Bailahongala and Khanapur taluks. This year, cases have also surfaced in Ramadurga taluk, alongside the aforementioned areas.
Dengue symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, eye pain, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, non-itchy rash, and low white blood cell count. Mosquito breeding increases during the rainy season due to water stagnation, contributing to the spread of diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. While dengue cases are a major concern, instances of malaria and chikungunya remain relatively low.
Dr. Mahesh Koni, District Health Officer, highlighted ongoing efforts in mosquito control. Asha workers and primary health center officials are conducting household visits for larval surveys and raising awareness about weekly water draining and tank cleaning to prevent mosquito breeding and disease transmission.
These measures aim to curb the spread of dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses, ensuring community health and safety during the monsoon season.
