Dengue Cases In Gurugram Rise To 104, Authorities Increase Fever Screening

Four new cases of dengue have been reported in Gurugram, pushing the total count of the infection in the city to 104 this year. Following this, health officials said that rising dengue cases have become a cause for concern as 28 cases were reported only in the first 10 days of October. However, no person has lost their life as of now. Notably, besides, Gurugram, cities of Wazirabad, Bhangrola, Nakhrola, Badshahpur, Bhondsi, Bhorakalan and Garhi have also been majorly impacted by this vector-borne disease.

Authorities Boost Door-To-Door Screening

As a preventive measure, authorities in Gurugram have extended their door-to-door rapid fever survey. In addition, they have also announced a "dry day" to check for water stagnation on October 13. All residents have also been asked to remain vigilant and follow proper precautions like wearing full clothes and sleeping under mosquito nets amongst other things.

"Apart from the rapid fever survey, which has been taking place since October 1 and extended to 15, we are conducting passive surveillance through hospitals as cases arrive. We have earmarked 25 beds in the Civil Hospital and 5-10 beds at the three subdivisional hospitals as per the requirement," Dr Jai Parkash, Deputy CMO and District Malaria Officer said. On Thursday, 192 samples were collected and 36 rapid tests were conducted. As many as 17,815 houses were covered in the survey and 217 cases of larvae were found the same day," he added.

How To Protect Yourself Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Preventing vector-borne diseases requires a multi-faceted approach, with both individual precautions and public health initiatives playing a critical role. Here are key prevention measures:

- Remove stagnant water from containers, plant pots, and garbage to reduce mosquito breeding grounds. Mosquitos, particularly the yellow fever carrying Aedes species breed in standing water.

- Apply insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

-Install fine mesh screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitos from entering your house.

- Wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure to mosquito bites.

- Use mosquito nets in sleeping areas, particularly in regions with high Dengue and Chikungunya cases.

- Governments and health organizations should focus on educating the public about the importance of mosquito control and personal protective measures.