Madikeri: Dengue fever cases are increasing in Kodagu, with 237 officially reported so far this year. The actual number is likely higher, as confirmed cases from private hospitals are yet to be included. Authorities link this surge to climate change, which has also contributed to a rise in illnesses like flu, cold, and cough.
Dr. Satish Kumar, District Health and Family Welfare Officer, provided detailed data on dengue cases across the taluks:
- Madikeri: 44 positive cases out of 1,486 tests
- Kushalnagar: 86 positive cases out of 544 tests
- Somwarpet: 12 positive cases out of 241 tests
- Ponnampet: 62 positive cases out of 547 tests
- Virajpet: 33 positive cases out of 171 tests
The spread of dengue is attributed to mosquitoes finding shelter in water tanks and reservoirs, with improper water storage maintenance further contributing to the issue. Health and ASHA workers are actively working to eliminate breeding sites of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is most active during the day.
Residents are advised to prevent water accumulation in containers like cement tanks, drums, and barrels, and to scrub and clean these containers at least once a week, as mosquito eggs can survive for up to a year without water. The health department also emphasizes the importance of consuming hot water and nutritious food to counter the increasing cases of viral fever due to the cold weather.
Dr. Satish has urged the public to take proper precautions to prevent the spread of dengue, an infectious disease, and has assured that appropriate tests and treatments will be provided for any suspected cases.
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