Marginal decline in dengue cases in Pune in Aug and Sept; PMC steps up awareness

In comparison, the same period last year saw around 2,300 suspected cases and 250 lab-confirmed ones.

From January till mid-September this year there were a total of 1,802 suspected dengue cases of which 86 were confirmed positive with the infection.

The rise in cases was seen in the months of August and September.

Transmitted by the aedes aegypti mosquito, dengue and chikungunya continue to pose challenges due to water accumulation.

“There are dengue cases this year as well. However there has been a dip in the number of cases as compared with last year,” Dr Rajesh Dighe Assistant Health Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation told The Indian Express.

“We have issued 2,681 notices to societies, buildings and other places where breeding sites have been detected and an administrative fee of Rs 4.8 lakh has been levied,” Dr Dighe added.

According to Dr Dighe, the insect control department has taken up several measures since last year to prevent dengue infections.

As part of the PMC’s mosquito breeding site survey, authorities identified 33,474 permanent and 37,874 temporary mosquito breedings sites.

Guppy fish – natural predators of mosquito larvae — which are bred at 181 centres were released at more than 2,000 locations based on citizens’ demand.

“Waterlogging is a concern and with various departments we are spraying insecticide to prevent dengue infection,” Dr Dighe added.

This month, the civic health department stepped up public awareness activities and ensured that jingles and messages were broadcast eight times on the radio channel.

“Messages have been widely displayed and even announced at bus stations at Shivajinagar, Swargate and a short film will also be launched,” he added.

With the help of volunteers from Kohinoor Technical Institute, PMC health authorities have been engaged in conducting information education and communication activities.

“Recently we conducted an awareness session at Vimlabai Garware school along with volunteers from Kohinoor Technical Society,” Dr Dighe added.