New Delhi: Over 60 fresh cases of dengue have been reported in the national capital in the last one week, taking the total count this year to more than 270, according to a civic report released on Monday. This month alone, at least 149 cases have been recorded till September 25, which is about 54 per cent of the cumulative cases this year so far. However, this is the least number of dengue cases reported in September when compared to the last six years.
According to the civic report, 102 cases of malaria and 52 cases of chikungunya have also been reported till September 25 this year. The number of dengue cases for January 1-September 25 period stands at 273, which is also the highest since 2019 when the count had stood at 282 during the same period.
Last year, 188 dengue cases were reported in the entire month of September, and 190 the year before that. In preceding years, the figures stood at 374 (2018), 1103 (2017), 1,362 (2016) and 6,775 (2015), according to data shared by Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on September 22.
He had claimed that the city this year has recorded the lowest count of dengue cases in September, vis-a-vis the corresponding numbers in the last six years.
As per the civic report issued by the municipal corporations last week, 211 cases of dengue were recorded till September 18 this year.
So, 62 fresh cases have been logged in one week while 72 cases were reported in the month of August, as per the report. Dengue mosquito larvae breed in clear, standing water, while those of malaria thrive even in dirty water.
Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch till mid-December. However, no deaths have been reported due to dengue in the city till now, it said.
Malaria, dengue and chikungunya are accompanied with high fever and therefore, doctors feel that people might suspect that they have contracted COVID-19. Civic bodies in Delhi have intensified their measures to prevent outbreak of vector-borne diseases. Dengue cases reported in the national capital till date are "under control" and the Delhi government is alert and all prepared to handle any situation arising out of the vector-borne disease, Jain had told reporters early this month.
The North MCD is set to run an intensive week-long anti-dengue campaign from October 2.