BENGALURU: Pointing to the alarming rise recently in number of
dengue
and other vector-borne diseases in the city,
doctors
advised residents as well civic officials to take preventive measures immediately against these illnesses.
“There has been a steep increase in the number of
dengue cases
at our hospital and across the city. On the rise is a ‘dengue-like fever’ which is affecting many people and involves high intensity fever. The symptoms are very similar to symptoms of dengue cases and this could confuse patients. It is, however, best to get a test done,” said Dr Manohar KN, consultant physician, internal medicine, Manipal Hospitals.
Doctors urged
BBMP
to ensure timely collection and disposal of garbage as well as carry out regular fumigation. “Over 40 % of our beds are occupied by patients suffering from dengue, swine flu and viral fever. Many are working professionals hit by mosquito-borne diseases due to pre-monsoon showers. The number of cases will go up once monsoon gathers strength,” said Dr S Manohar, director and head of department, internal medicine, Sakra World Hospital.
He said BBMP, while carrying out regular fumigation in public places, must also ensure proper garbage collection and disposal. “It’s also important for the corporation to disseminate information about such diseases and how to keep oneself safe,” he added.
“We’re getting an increasing number of fever cases and those accompanied by rashes. We found that their white blood cells and platelet count had fallen — indicating viral fever which could be mosquito-borne such as dengue and chikungunya,” said Dr Vinayaka GP, internal medicine, BR Life SSNMC Hospital.
“Over 30% of total cases now in our Out-Patient Department are viral fevers with generalised body and joint pain,” he added.
Meanwhile, BBMP officials pointed out that South, East and West zones are seeing the maximum mosquito menace. BBMP health officer Manoranjan Hegde said the civic body doesn’t have an entomologist to study it.
“We deputed three men for fumigation in every ward of these three zones and four men in other zones. They will spray larvicide weekly once to prevent excessive breeding,” Hegde said.
He added that a special vehicle has been mounted with a power sprayer for drains which are main hubs for mosquito breeding. “Every day, around 60 homes in and around dengue-positive areas are covered by our staff to create awareness about eliminate stagnant water around their homes,” he added.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.