New Delhi: India has reported 49,573 dengue cases and 42 deaths till August this year, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Last year, the country had recorded 2,33,519 dengue cases and 297 deaths in total.

Dengue Situation in Key States

  • Delhi: Reported 964 cases till August 31, compared to 1,215 cases during the same period in 2024.
  • Nationwide, while the current number of cases is lower compared to last year, officials have cautioned that the situation could change due to prolonged monsoon rains and waterlogging in several regions.

At a high-level review meeting, Union Health Minister JP Nadda said the current incidence of dengue is “low” but warned states to remain vigilant. He directed state governments to reassess their preparedness and vector control strategies.

“Intensifying vector control through source reduction, including the removal or treatment of rainfed containers once floodwaters recede, along with insecticide fogging in areas experiencing increased fever cases, is critical,” Nadda said.

Dengue Prevention Measures: How to Stay Safe

Health experts recommend simple but effective steps to reduce the risk of dengue and other mosquito-borne illnesses:

  1. Use Mosquito Repellents
    Apply repellents on exposed skin, especially during early morning and late afternoon when Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are most active. Choose repellents with DEET, picaridin, or natural oils like citronella.
  2. Wear Protective Clothing
    Opt for long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover arms and legs. Light-coloured clothes are preferable as mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colours.
  3. Install Nets and Screens
    Sleep under mosquito nets and ensure windows and doors are fitted with mesh screens to keep mosquitoes out.
  4. Remove Stagnant Water
    Empty containers, buckets, flower pots, and coolers regularly to eliminate breeding grounds. Even small puddles can attract mosquito breeding.
  5. Keep Surroundings Clean
    Dispose of garbage properly and prevent water from collecting in discarded items.
  6. Use Mosquito Coils & Vaporisers
    Indoors, use mosquito coils, plug-in vaporisers, or sprays during peak mosquito activity hours.

The Bigger Picture

While India’s current dengue count is lower than last year, the risk remains high during the extended monsoon. With nearly 50,000 cases already recorded, officials are urging states and citizens alike to maintain strict preventive measures to avoid a potential surge in September and October.