Dengue Surge Fuels Demand for Papayas and Kiwis in Bengaluru

In Bengaluru, the surge in dengue cases has sparked a heightened demand for papayas and kiwis, believed by some to offer nutrients that combat dengue symptoms and boost immunity. Kiwi prices have surged from ₹240 to ₹280 per kg, while papayas now cost ₹45 per kg, up from ₹40, according to a vendor in Vasanth Nagar.

At the Horticultural Producers’ Cooperative Marketing and Processing Society (HOPCOMS), papayas are priced at ₹33 per kg and kiwis at ₹140 per kg. Despite kiwi not being a commonly sought-after fruit like bananas or apples, there has been a noticeable increase in demand recently, causing supply shortages, noted a supermarket manager in Yelahanka.

Online, kiwis are listed at around ₹150 per kg but are currently out of stock. However, medical experts caution against viewing fruits like papaya as miracle remedies. As per Hindu reports Dr. Nishanth Hiremath from Bhagwan Mahaveer Jain Hospital clarified that while papaya leaf extract is believed by many to increase platelet count and aid in dengue recovery, its effectiveness is limited to supporting platelet production once the infection’s severe phase has passed.

As per Hindu reports Dr. Hiremath stressed the importance of maintaining hydration for effective treatment and cautioned against excessive reliance on fruits like papayas or dragon fruit to prevent dengue. Instead, he advocated for community efforts to improve sanitation and prevent mosquito breeding grounds, underscoring the critical role of environmental cleanliness in combating dengue outbreaks.