Dengue Grips Kerala, Over 1600 Suspected Infections Reported in July

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is experiencing a significant increase in dengue cases with over 1,600 infections reported so far in July. According to the data released by the state government’s Health Department in Kerala, a total of 1,693 suspected dengue cases have been reported in the month of July of which 493 were confirmed. 

The Health Department on Friday also stated there were a combined 11,438 instances of fever, alongside 330 suspected cases of dengue, with 109 of these being confirmed. 

In addition to an increasing number of people seeking treatment for fever, the coastal state has confirmed over 55,000 cases this month. Malappuram district recorded the highest number of fever cases, with 2,159 patients seeking treatment, while Thrissur district had the highest number of suspected dengue cases at 62.

Earlier, the Kerala Government in April had ordered the officials for intensification of preventive drive against dengue. 

The directions included collaboration with local self-government bodies. These instructions were also issued during the monthly meeting of State Medical Officers. Amongst other instructions were “Pre-monsoon cleaning tasks must be undertaken promptly. Special committees will be established in each district under the supervision of district medical officers to monitor the advancement of these initiatives.”

What is Dengue? Its Causes and Impact 

Dengue (break-bone fever) is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates.

Most people who get dengue will not have symptoms. But for those who do, the most common symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. Most will get better in 1–2 weeks. Some people develop severe dengue and need care in a hospital. In severe cases, dengue can be fatal.  

Most people with dengue have mild or no symptoms and will get better in 1–2 weeks. Rarely, dengue can be severe and lead to death.  

No Specific treatment for Dengue 

According to the World Health Organisation, there is no specific treatment for dengue. The focus is on treating pain symptoms. Most cases of dengue fever can be treated at home with pain medicine.

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is often used to control pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin are avoided as they can increase the risk of bleeding. For people with severe dengue, hospitalization is often needed.

Kerala Saw Highest Dengue Cases in Nation last year 

According to 'EnviStats India 2024', a publication by the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Kerala reported the highest number of dengue cases and associated fatalities in the nation last year. Kerala reported 9,770 cases and 37 deaths in 2023. 

The report highlighted insufficient sanitation as one of the factors contributing to the disease's spread.