Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 17: Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in dengue cases and fatalities not only in various countries around the world but also in India. In 2014, India recorded 40,571 dengue cases and 137 deaths. By 2024, the number had surged to 2,33,400 cases with 235 deaths. The highest number of cases in a single year was reported in 2023, with 2,89,235 cases and 485 deaths.

May 16 is observed as National Dengue Prevention Day. The theme for the year 2025 is ‘Swift Action for Dengue Control, Clean Environment and Healthy Living’. Dengue is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, known for its distinct black and white stripes, often referred to as the ‘tiger mosquito’. Unlike most mosquitoes that bite at night, the dengue-carrying mosquito is active during the day, particularly between 6 am to 10 am and 3 pm to 5 pm.

These mosquitoes breed in stagnant clean water found in items such as buckets, water tanks, old tyres, and flowerpots. In addition to dengue fever, Aedes aegypti can also spread chikungunya, Zika virus, and yellow fever.

To prevent the spread of dengue, individuals are advised to ensure there is no stagnant water around their homes and to keep all water containers properly covered. Indoor spaces should be treated with fogging and mosquito-repellent incense. People are also encouraged to wear clothing that covers the arms and legs and to apply mosquito-repellent lotions or creams to avoid bites.

The year-wise data of dengue cases and deaths in India reveal that in 2014, there were 40,571 cases and 137 deaths. In 2015, the numbers rose to 99,913 cases and 220 deaths. The year 2016 saw 1,29,166 cases and 245 deaths, while 2017 recorded 1,88,401 cases and 325 deaths. In 2018, there were 1,01,192 cases and 172 deaths. The year 2019 saw 1,57,315 cases and 166 deaths. In 2020, during the pandemic, cases dropped to 44,585 with 56 deaths. However, in 2021, the numbers spiked again with 1,93,245 cases and 346 deaths. In 2022, there were 2,33,251 cases and 303 deaths. The peak came in 2023 with 2,89,235 cases and 485 deaths. As of 2024, 2,33,400 cases and 235 deaths have been reported.

With dengue cases steadily increasing, it is imperative for individuals and communities to remain vigilant and adopt preventive measures to safeguard public health.