From the capital region of Delhi-NCR to Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, the country is currently witnessing a dangerous outbreak of dengue. Every year, between August and October, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases rises, placing an additional burden on hospitals. Although only nine days of October have passed, reports emerging from various locations are causing alarm.

Recent reports from Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are raising concerns among health experts. Meanwhile, in Delhi-NCR, nearly 100 cases were reported in the first week of October alone. In Tamil Nadu, over 21,000 dengue cases and 10 deaths have been recorded so far this year (up to October 7). In Gujarat, more than 50 security personnel who had arrived in Gandhinagar for the National Unity Day parade tested positive for dengue; 43 of them have been hospitalized.

The situation in neighboring Bangladesh is even more critical. According to local reports, over 280 people have lost their lives to dengue in Bangladesh so far this year.

First, let’s look at the situation in Delhi.

Dengue cases in Delhi are on the rise following the monsoon season. According to a report by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), 98 new dengue cases were reported in the capital during the first week of October alone, bringing the total number of cases for the year to 695.

According to a report by the news agency PTI, 286 cases of dengue and 124 cases of malaria were recorded in Delhi in September. These figures represent the highest monthly counts for both diseases so far this year.

Data on vector-borne diseases indicates that 98 cases of dengue and 23 cases of malaria have been recorded in Delhi so far in October.

The total number of malaria cases for the year has reached 266.

What is the reason behind the rising cases? Health experts note that water stagnation is frequently observed in the post-monsoon period. This creates a favorable environment for the rapid breeding of mosquitoes. The *Aedes* mosquito, which spreads dengue, lays its eggs in clean, stagnant water; consequently, water stagnation can lead to a surge in the mosquito population.

The period spanning late September and October marks a seasonal transition, characterized by temperatures ranging between 28°C and 32°C and average humidity levels of 60% to 70%. These specific weather conditions also facilitate the mosquito life cycle.

Tamil Nadu: What is the situation in Chennai?

Several cities in Tamil Nadu have witnessed a serious dengue situation over the past few weeks.

Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj stated on Thursday that dengue cases in Chennai are currently stable. However, he urged the public to take all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito breeding in and around their homes, given the associated risks. So far this year, the state has recorded 10 deaths due to dengue.

The Health Minister informed that, on average, 1,000 medical camps are being organized daily across the state to screen individuals suffering from fever.
These camps screen fever patients to ensure the timely detection of diseases like dengue.
A total of 21,655 dengue cases have been reported in the state between January 1 and October 7, with 10 fatalities occurring during this period.
After initially declining, dengue cases in Chennai have now stabilized. However, there is a possibility of a resurgence in cases following the monsoon; therefore, the public needs to remain vigilant. In Chennai, the number of dengue hotspots—areas with a high incidence of infection—has dropped from 590 to 300. However, 301 dengue patients are still undergoing treatment in hospitals across Tamil Nadu.

Gujarat: Over 50 security personnel attending the National Unity Day parade contract dengue

According to reports from Ahmedabad, more than 50 personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)—who had arrived in Gandhinagar for the National Unity Day parade—have tested positive for dengue. Of these, 43 personnel have been admitted to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital.

Meanwhile, a 29-year-old CRPF jawan from Assam passed away while undergoing treatment for dengue at Gandhinagar Civil Hospital. However, officials have not yet officially confirmed the cause of death.

Following the rise in dengue cases, Gujarat's Health Department has intensified preventive measures in the affected areas.
State Health Minister Praful Panseriya held a high-level review meeting with officials after being apprised of the rising number of cases.
Subsequently, orders were issued for large-scale insecticide spraying, anti-larval drives, and enhanced surveillance in the affected regions.

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