Bengaluru eagerly awaited the arrival of rains amid the scorching summer. While the heavy rains have brought relief to the residents, they have also raised concerns about a potential increase in dengue cases.
The city reported 172 dengue cases between May 1 and May 13. According to the state health department, Karnataka has reported 2,877 confirmed cases as of May 13 this year, a notable increase from last year’s figure of 1,725 during the same period.
Suralkar Vikas Kishore, Special Commissioner for Health at the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), told News18 that all necessary measures have been implemented to control the spread of the disease.
“Four teams have been formed for each ward to take up fogging and spraying of disinfectants. These teams will identify those spots which will see water stagnate and take measure to prevent mosquito breeding,” Kishore said.
He further added that people need not panic since it is a seasonal disease and that the City Civic body is taking all necessary measures, from increasing testing to providing medication and spreading awareness among the public.
Sharing an important message for the public, Kishore said, “People should keep their home and surrounding areas clean and ensure that they don’t have larvae-breeding sites as half the battle is then won.”
High risk to pregnant women, children
Dengue also poses a high risk to pregnant women and children as it is more active among them. Shedding light on this, Dr. Dinesh V Kamath, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospital, stated, “The dengue is more active in pregnant women and in children’s and the mosquito bite in the day time poses high risk. Parents need to be aware about it and take all measures that there are no mosquitos around. Parents can clothe their children fully at best and more importantly ensure there is no water collection area where they play.”
Speaking about the severity of Dengue fever and the preferred diet for those affected, Dr. Kamath said, “1 out of 3 cases goes to severe, early hospitalisation is needed then as symptoms start progressing faster. 1.5 lakh to 4.5 lakh is the usual count, going down means patient needs observation daily.”
“In a severe case patient should avoid spicy and oily foods. More liquid and semi solid diets should be preferred like fruits and vegetables. To mention few kiwis, papaya, pomegranate, apple, cucumber and green leafy vegetables,” he added.
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