Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Kolkata is once again on high alert as dengue cases have started climbing across the city and its surrounding districts. Hospitals are reporting between 10 to 20 new patients being admitted daily, sparking concerns that the post-monsoon season may trigger another major outbreak. Health officials warn that if precautionary measures are not strengthened immediately, the city could face a repeat of previous years when dengue claimed several lives and overwhelmed medical infrastructure.
Rising Trend Across Hospitals
Doctors in both government and private hospitals have confirmed a steady rise in dengue admissions over the past two weeks. While earlier in the year cases were sporadic, the sudden spike coincides with lingering stagnant water and humid weather conditions—ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary vector of dengue.
According to hospital sources, most patients are reporting classic dengue symptoms including high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, nausea, and in some cases skin rashes. A smaller but concerning proportion are showing warning signs of severe dengue, such as abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, and drops in platelet counts, necessitating critical care.
Dengue Cases Rising in Kolkata: Why Dengue Is Rising Now
Public health experts point to several factors fueling the current surge:
- Weather Conditions – Prolonged rains followed by warm temperatures create ideal environments for mosquito breeding.
- Waterlogging in Localities – Several parts of Kolkata and suburbs suffer from clogged drains and stagnant pools after monsoon showers.
- Inadequate Mosquito Control – Despite civic body drives, mosquito larvae continue to be found in construction sites, open tanks, flowerpots, and unused containers.
- Low Community Awareness – Many households fail to adopt basic preventive measures such as covering water containers or using mosquito repellents.
Hospitals Struggling with Admissions
With admissions ranging from 10 to 20 per day, hospitals like SSKM, NRS Medical College, and private chains such as Apollo and AMRI have had to allocate additional beds for dengue patients. Doctors warn that if the upward trend continues through October, non-dengue patients might face bed shortages.
Medical professionals are particularly cautious about pediatric and geriatric patients, who face higher risks of complications. Special pediatric ICUs have already been prepared in anticipation of more severe cases.
Civic Body Measures
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has intensified its anti-dengue campaigns. These include:
- Spraying insecticides in vulnerable neighborhoods
- Releasing guppy fish in ponds to curb mosquito larvae
- Issuing fines to households and establishments found with mosquito breeding sites
- Deploying health workers for door-to-door awareness drives
KMC health officials claim that while vector-control measures are ongoing, community cooperation is critical. “Unless residents take responsibility for keeping their premises dry and clean, the spread cannot be contained,” a senior KMC official said.
Public Awareness and Precautions
Doctors stress that early detection remains the most effective way to reduce fatalities. People experiencing fever with severe body pain are urged to seek medical help immediately rather than self-medicating. Preventive measures recommended include:
- Wearing full-sleeved clothing
- Using mosquito repellents and nets, especially at night
- Keeping water storage containers covered
- Ensuring no stagnant water accumulates near homes
- Allowing civic workers to inspect and treat residential premises
Government Monitoring
The West Bengal Health Department has instructed all hospitals to maintain daily logs of dengue admissions and deaths. Emergency review meetings are being held to track rising numbers. Health authorities are also coordinating with schools to spread awareness among children, urging parents to ensure protective clothing and preventive practices.
Past Outbreaks as a Warning
Kolkata has witnessed severe dengue outbreaks in previous years, most notably in 2017 and 2019, when hospitals were pushed to capacity. Experts caution that unless preventive measures are aggressively pursued now, the city risks another major health emergency.
External References for Public Information
- National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme – Dengue Guidelines
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare – Dengue Information
- World Health Organization: Dengue Fact Sheet
- Kolkata Municipal Corporation – Health Services
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