Dengue fever cases surge before monsoon: 1,201 people infected in Karnataka

Karnataka has seen a significant rise in dengue fever cases before the monsoon season, with 1,201 confirmed cases reported in just the past four months. Heavy rainfall in April has contributed to an increase in cases even before the usual monsoon season.

The state health department has been actively monitoring the situation and has conducted blood sample tests on 24,296 individuals across the state. Of these, the highest number of cases—485—were recorded within the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits, followed by Tumkur (78), Kalaburagi (65), Shivamogga (49), Dharwad (47), Chitradurga (43), and Ballari (41).

The health department has already begun efforts to raise awareness among the public and eliminate mosquito larvae to control the spread of the disease. Last year, the state reported over 32,000 dengue cases, with 16 fatalities.

To prevent the further spread of dengue, residents are urged to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Symptoms of dengue fever include sudden high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and rashes. Early detection and appropriate medical intervention are crucial to prevent the disease from progressing to severe forms. Authorities have advised wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent containing DEET, and keeping windows closed during peak mosquito activity hours.

The public is also encouraged to use mosquito sprays in areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed, such as closets, under beds, and behind curtains, to help control the spread of this dangerous disease.