Mosquito-borne diseases have a reputation to spread during monsoon, and amid heavy untimely rainfall in India, there is a concerning rise in Dengue cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there are 390 million dengue infections worldwide each year and that 96 million of those infections are symptomatic. As of June 2023, about 2162214 cases and 974 dengue-related deaths have been reported worldwide. If we come to the Indian context, over 233251 cases and 303 deaths related to dengue were reported in India in 2022. Bengaluru in Karnataka has reported the highest number of dengue-positive cases with a two-fold rise from 388 to 732 cases from January to June 2023. The number of cases is expected to continue to rise for the rest of the year.

So, What Could be the Reason for this Sudden Spike in Dengue Cases?

Dengue is a viral infection that transmits from mosquitoes to people, specifically from the female Aedes aegypti mosquito and Aedes albopictus. Even though it is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, people living in urban settings and metropolitan cities are also equally seen to be affected by this mosquito-borne disease. 

Dengue can be both symptomatic and asymptomatic, with most patients experiencing no symptoms. However, they are active carriers of the virus to other mosquitoes like symptomatic ones. Fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash are a few common symptoms for symptomatic dengue patients. Most people recover within 1 to 2 weeks. Only a few become severely ill and require hospitalization with proper medical care. Dengue fever can be lethal in more severe cases.

The resurgence of Dengue can be attributed to climate change over the years. Warmer temperatures and increased rainfall are major factors behind the extended breeding season, making it more favorable for them to survive in colder climates; and hence the increased spread. In addition, there has been extreme urbanization which is creating more breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid environments, and they can breed in even the smallest amount of standing water. Increased travel is also contributing to the spread of dengue. People who travel to areas where dengue is common can bring the virus back home with them, and infect others.

A few Common Symptoms Most Dengue Patients Manifest Include:

• High fever (104°F and more)
• Headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle & joint pain
• Nausea & vomiting
• Rash

How Can You Keep Yourself Safe from Mosquito-borne Diseases This Monsoon?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent the spread of dengue, including:

• Avoid mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves and pants and use mosquito nets while sleeping. When going outside, make a habit to use insect-repellent cream/spray. In addition, stay indoors during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
• Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by emptying standing water from containers around your home, such as buckets, tires, and flower pots.
• Install insect screens, use mosquito-killing sprays/incense/cones for the home, or close the doors and window to keep mosquitos away from entering your house.
• Avoid going to dengue-affected places and places that are breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
• If you or someone from your family show(s) symptoms of dengue, ensure they are checked and given medical care. 

By following these things, you can reduce your risk of contracting dengue. Since there is currently no specific treatment and vaccination is under trial in India, the viral illness is managed with pain medications. See a doctor right away if you think your symptoms may indicate the presence of dengue. The only way to stop DENGUE is to be aware and get treated early!