Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, June 4: Suspected dengue cases are on the rise in rural areas of Dakshina Kannada district, according to district health and family welfare officer Dr H R Thimmaiah.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Dr Thimmaiah said that the district has been receiving heavy rainfall over the past week, leading to water accumulation in several areas. This has contributed to a spike in suspected dengue cases, particularly in Beltangady, Puttur, and Sullia taluks. He stressed the need for immediate preventive measures.
Awareness campaigns will be conducted in schools to educate children on dengue prevention, he added. Medical, nursing, and allied health science colleges, along with officers from the DDPI and other departments, have been requested to cooperate with the health department. All government and private offices, schools, hospitals, and buildings have been instructed to inspect and eliminate mosquito breeding spots at least once a week.
43 suspected dengue cases so far
From January to May 31, 2025, the district has reported 43 suspected dengue and 3 chikungunya cases. These include 8 cases within the Mangaluru City Corporation limits, 13 in Mangaluru taluk, 5 each in Bantwal and Puttur, 2 in Sullia, and 10 in Beltangady.
Survey of 50 houses per dengue case
When a suspected dengue case is reported, a survey of 50 surrounding houses will be conducted, and larvicide measures will be undertaken. The same approach will be followed for other types of fever as well. Dr Thimmaiah noted that dengue cases may continue to be reported until August.
District malaria officer Dr Jacinta and district surveillance officer Dr Naveenchandra Kulal were present.
Precautions to follow:
• Observe ‘Dry Day’ every Friday by draining stored water and refilling with clean water.
• This helps break the mosquito life cycle.
• Inspect and destroy mosquito breeding spots around your home every week.
• Dispose of fallen leaves in areca plantations weekly.
• In rubber plantations, dispose of tapping cups that are not in use to prevent water stagnation.
No room for negligence
Sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, intense muscle and joint pain, nausea, and vomiting are symptoms of dengue fever. It is spread by the bite of Aedes mosquitoes infected with the dengue virus. There is no specific treatment for dengue; rest and fluid intake are essential. If left untreated, it can be fatal. Self-medication and home remedies can be dangerous. One must consult a doctor immediately if any of the symptoms appear.