THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Dengue fever in the state is at the highest rate in the last five years. 11,804 people were diagnosed with dengue fever in the past 10 months. 41 deaths were also reported this year. A total of 32453 people sought treatment and 105 people died with dengue symptoms. In most of these cases, at least someone in the household has been diagnosed with dengue fever. These deaths were included in the suspect list on the technical ground that the deceased had not previously been diagnosed with dengue fever. Kerala is leading in dengue cases in the country. Karnataka and Maharashtra are right behind.

There is a 56 percent increase in dengue fever in the state compared to last year. Last year there were only 4468 cases and 58 deaths. The health department had earlier warned that there would be a big increase in dengue cases this time. The increase in cases is proof that even though mosquito control has been devised with the participation of the local department to reduce the spread of the disease, it has not been implemented significantly in many places. Health experts point out that the cases are likely to increase further if intermittent rains continue.

With the danger of repeated dengue outbreaks, the health department is trying to reduce the spread of the disease. Dengue is caused by five types of viruses. A second exposure to another virus can be more dangerous and potentially fatal.

Dengue victims in previous years

2019..............4651

2020..............2722

2021..............3251

2022..............4468

2023..............11804

"Water should not be allowed to be stagnant for more than a week. Frequent rains can cause mosquito breeding. Cleaning the house and surroundings is important.'

- Dr. Althaf

Professor of Community Medicine,

Thiruvananthapuram Medical College.