Assam: Dengue cases on the rise in state, over 1,000 cases reported
Guwahati: Assam has seen a sharp rise in dengue cases with more than 1,000 positive cases of the mosquito-borne viral disease being reported across the state so far this year.
Out of these dengue cases, over 800 cases have been reported between July and September 24, 2024.
Nearly 214 dengue cases were reported in July, around 293 in August and nearly 336 in the current month.
With a total of 360 dengue cases, Dima Hasao topped the list, followed by 73 cases in Jorhat and 72 in Kamrup Metropolitan districts.
Localities including Bhaskar Nagar, Geetanagar and some areas on the RG Baruah Road in Kamrup Metropolitan district have been identified as the most affected areas under the east zone of the district.
The east zone has reported nearly 47 positive cases, followed by 11 under the capital zone, eight in south zone, and three each under west zone and Sonapur block, respectively.
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Nearly 12 areas of these localities in the district have been identified as dengue hotspots.
On the other hand, all districts of Assam barring South Salmara-Mankachar and Tamulpur have reported dengue cases this year.
However, no deaths have been reported due to dengue in the state so far.
Meanwhile, the Assam health department has been carrying out extensive source reduction drives of the carrier mosquito including, engaging domestic breeding checkers, release of Guppy fish, mass awareness programmes and fogging, among others in the affected areas.
The department has also sent a high-level team to Dima Hasao district to take stock of the situation and take necessary measures to contain the outbreak of the fatal disease.
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease occurring in tropical and subtropical areas. Those who become infected with the virus a second time are at a significantly greater risk of developing severe disease.
Symptoms include high fever, headache, rash and muscle and joint pain. In severe cases there is serious bleeding and shock, which can be life threatening. Treatment includes fluids and pain relievers.