Dengue kills over 30 people in Kerala, the highest in country

Kerala has recorded the highest number of dengue cases and deaths in India this year. The state has reported over a thousand cases and more than 30 deaths in the country, as per the data updated till July 2023.

The high number of cases in Kerala is a cause for concern, and it is sending an alarm to other states to prepare for a possible outbreak. Other south Indian states, such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, have also reported a high number of cases.

In 2022, Punjab had the highest number of dengue deaths (41), followed by Uttar Pradesh (33), Bihar (32), West Bengal (30), and Kerala (29).

The data from the last six years shows that the number of dengue cases in India has been increasing every year. In 2018, there were over one lakh cases, and in 2022, the number of cases crossed two lakh.

Rising cases put more burden on the already stretched health facilities in the country where people find it difficult to get beds in government hospitals while private hospitals charge them a hefty amount owing to higher demands for beds when dengue cases are on the rise.

Reducing dengue transmission requires a coordinated effort from government authorities, healthcare providers, and the public to address the various factors that contribute to the high number of cases.

Below are some reasons why South Indian states see a high number of dengue cases.

Warm climate: The south Indian states have a warm and humid climate, which is ideal for the breeding of the Aedes mosquito, which is the vector for dengue.

Construction: Construction work on big infrastructure projects leads to the development of more mosquito-breeding habitats, such as stagnant water.

Poor sanitation: The south Indian states also have poor sanitation, which contributes to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

Climate change: Climate change is also a factor, as it is leading to longer and more intense monsoon seasons, which create ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.

Here are some of the things that you can do to prevent dengue:

• Eliminate mosquito breeding places. This includes emptying water from containers, such as buckets, tires, and flower pots.
• Cover water tanks and drums.
• Repair leaking taps and pipes.
• Keep your surroundings clean and tidy.
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping.
• Apply insect repellent on exposed skin.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors.
• Get vaccinated against dengue.

If you think you have dengue, see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to prevent complications.

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