The number of dengue hotspots in Karnataka has decreased significantly, dropping from 406 in June to 12 currently. Despite this improvement, the health department is implementing strict measures in response to recent rains, which could lead to a resurgence of cases. Commissioner Shivakumar KB emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance in Bengaluru.
During the first half of each month, health department volunteers conduct inspections covering 90 to 95 lakh families to identify mosquito breeding sites. Property owners found responsible for these sites face fines, totaling Rs 6.5 lakh collected by the BBMP and Rs 35,000 by the Mangalore Municipal Corporation. Dr. Sharif, Deputy Director of the National Center for Communicable Diseases Control, confirmed these actions.
A dengue hotspot is defined as an area with at least two positive cases within a 100-meter radius. Currently, the 12 hotspots include nine in the BBMP area, two in Kalaburagi, and one in Raichur. To combat mosquito populations, 66,784 mosquito repellents have been distributed statewide this year, and neem oil is being promoted as an economical alternative to chemical repellents.
The helpline for screening and monitoring dengue patients has received a record 86,318 calls. The health department has ensured adequate supplies of paracetamol, testing kits, and other essential medicines. Daily dengue cases have declined from 450 to around 90. Primary Health Centers and hospitals are authorized to purchase necessary medications under the ABARC fund.
