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Kerala Kaumudi Online
Friday, 19 June 2026 1.54 AM IST

Monsoon spike: Kerala on high alert as fever cases surge; 19 new Shigella cases reported

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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala is witnessing a sharp spike in vector-borne and waterborne diseases following the onset of the monsoon, with health authorities reporting a significant rise in Dengue, Leptospirosis (rat fever), and Shigella cases across the state.

On Thursday, the state health department confirmed 19 fresh cases of Shigella, pushing the total number of infections recorded this June alone to 110.

District-wise breakdown of Shigella cases

The infection has spread across multiple districts, with northern Kerala recording the highest volume of cases:

  • Kozhikode: 9 cases
  • Thrissur: 3 cases
  • Thiruvananthapuram: 2 cases
  • Kannur: 2 cases
  • Kollam, Ernakulam, and Malappuram: 1 case each

Hospitals overwhelmed by monsoon ailments

State healthcare infrastructure is facing heavy pressure, with 13,849 individuals seeking outpatient (OP) treatment for various fevers in a single day.

Alongside gastrointestinal infections, vector-borne diseases are showing a worrying upward trend. A total of 68 dengue cases were confirmed today, while another 297 patients remain under observation with suspected symptoms. The capital district of Thiruvananthapuram continues to be the hardest hit by the dengue outbreak, accounting for 24 of the newly confirmed cases. Meanwhile, 16 cases of Leptospirosis were also logged across various districts.

Health department response: In light of the escalating situation, the Health Department, in collaboration with allied government sectors, has extended its specialised sanitation and awareness drive until July 31. Running under the directive "Prevent Diarrheal Diseases, Save Lives," the campaign focuses on rigorous water-chlorination, waste management, and early intervention to curb further transmission.

RELATED TOPICS: MONSOON, RAIN, DISEASE, SHIGELLA, SHIGELLA DEATH, FEVER
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