Mangaluru: Dengue fever cases have been rapidly increasing in the Dakshina Kannada (DK) and Udupi districts in recent weeks. DK has reported 48 dengue cases in the last four months, 20 of which are from the Mangaluru City Corporation. Officials say the rising numbers are due to the heavy rainfall this year, that has resulted in stagnant freshwater, which is a perfect breeding ground for mosquito larvae.
According to sources, Asha workers, multi-purpose workers, and health officials are conducting a door-to-door survey to check for stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. Rajendra K. V. has directed staff to take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of dengue fever. Mosquito nets and repellents should be used to prevent mosquito bites, he added.
DC further informed that Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water in boats anchored at Mangaluru’s fisheries harbour. Officials in charge of fisheries should raise awareness among boat owners and fishermen. Guppy fish should be released into quarry pits to prevent mosquito breeding, he added.
Dengue fever cases have increased in Mudur village, Jadkal Gram Panchayat, Udupi. On April 26, a group of district officials visited the village. Officials conducted a survey in 780 houses to determine the source of the disease outbreak.
In the case of emergency, a 108 ambulance has been stationed. Dengue cases are being treated in a dedicated ward at the Government Hospital in Kundapura.
Since January, at least 185 dengue cases have been reported in the Kundapura sub division. In May, a total of 44 patients had recovered and another 34 are still undergoing treatment.