Shivamogga, Jun 23: The number of dengue cases in Shivamogga has surpassed 200, prompting concerns as the monsoon season begins. Recently relieved from scorching heat by Varunarayan’s arrival, the district now faces a mounting health crisis with dengue cases increasing daily. Over the past two months, a significant surge in new cases has been observed, with fever onset often confirming dengue infection.
As the rains commence, fear of dengue is escalating across the city. Recent reports indicate 23 cases in the district, with two fatalities, though health officials have not confirmed dengue as the cause due to concurrent symptoms.
Compared to last year’s gradual rise to 456 cases post-June, this year’s situation is dire, with over 200 cases already in June and numbers expected to rise further. Daily doubling of cases is attributed to stagnant water in drains, culverts, and canals, ideal breeding grounds for mosquito larvae during summer.
The Chikkamagaluru Health Department urges calm and advises strict adherence to mosquito prevention measures. Despite efforts, the epidemic persists, prompting intensified control measures under DHO leadership. These include daily surveillance, hospital monitoring, and awareness campaigns in water-scarce areas.