Ernakulam recorded highest dengue cases last month

Kochi: Ernakulam has recorded 547 confirmed dengue cases over 28 days in June, accounting for 27% of the total cases reported in the state.
The data further shows that including suspected cases, the district reported a staggering 1,180 cases, making up 14% of the state's total. Kollam follows closely, constituting 12.5% (1,055) of the total cases in the state.
A suspected dengue fever death was also reported in the district, A 43-year-old woman from Thrikkakara died on June 19.At the same time, 16 dengue deaths were reported in the state, including 13 suspected dengue fatalities.
Health officials admitted that dengue cases are being reported from across the district. Despite repeated awareness campaigns, the number of cases continues to rise, largely due to the public's failure to observe weekly dry days to eliminate standing water, the primary breeding ground for mosquitoes. Officials pointed out that the sources of most infections centered in and around homes.
"Intermittent rains are causing an increase in cases. The sources are often associated with indoor plants. While casualties are fewer, patients with comorbidities are vulnerable," said a health official. Communicable disease experts also pointed out that water collected in plastic waste is a major source of dengue infection.
“When there are intermittent rains, the number of artificial water collections will rise. We witness cases are rising in the district. The Aedes mosquito, which causes dengue infection, bites in the morning and evening. Those jogging during this time, should wear clothes covering their arms and use mosquito repellents. Elderly people who go out for walking in the mornings and evenings are particularly at risk and should take take preventive measures,” said Dr Binu Areekkal, head of community medicine at Kalamassery medical college.
Another doctor warned that a second dengue infection can be fatal. “The first infection might be mild or asymptomatic, but the second can cause a significant drop in platelet count. However, differentiating between the first and second infections can be challenging. An NS1 test can confirm dengue, otherwise, an antibody test after seven days is needed,” the doctor explained.
Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, chairman of IMA research cell, said a significant number of Ernakulam’s 35 lakh population, live in waterlogged areas susceptible to dengue infection. He noted that blocked drains also contribute to the problem. “The eggs laid earlier in the year are now hatching with the rains leading to a rise in infections. Since many of the patients are asymptomatic, they go to workplaces carrying the dengue virus. The mosquito that bites them can also bite their colleagues or the co-passengers, thereby transmitting the infection,” he said.