Chandigarh, 11 November 2024: Dengue cases in Chandigarh have seen a significant uptick, with the Health Department reporting 245 cases so far this season.
Dr. Suman Singh, Director of Health Services, noted the challenge in distinguishing between dengue and viral fever, as both present with similar symptoms like a drop in platelet count.
“Around 65-70 samples are being collected daily,” she said.
“Not all test positive for dengue; many are viral fever cases.”
The rising number of dengue cases has pushed the demand for platelet transfusions, according to reports.
Dr. Singh assured that despite the surge, there is no shortage, thanks to support from regular blood donors, including volunteers from the Police Department.
“We’ve coordinated with donor groups, securing about 20 voluntary donors daily to meet the demand,” she added.
At the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Sector 32, a spike in cases was observed. Between October 16 and November 8, of the 3,189 people tested, 1,126 were confirmed positive for dengue.
This was a notable increase from the previous testing period of September 1 to October 15, where out of 5,604 tests, 1,108 were positive.
The acceleration in case numbers was evident as October and early November saw over 1,100 cases in just 25 days, compared to 45 days in prior months.
Free testing services at GMCH-32, Government Multi-Specialty Hospital (GMSH-16), and the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) have been overwhelmed with patients.
Many people also opt for private labs, and out-of-state patients frequently visit Chandigarh’s major hospitals for treatment.
The dengue-causing Aedes aegypti mosquito thrives in high temperatures and humidity. Dr. Varsha Gupta, Head of Microbiology at GMCH-32, commented on the changing pattern of the dengue season.
“The onset of dengue cases has shifted. They typically appeared in July, but this year, due to prolonged summers and delayed monsoon, the first cases were reported in late August. We saw a peak by late October,” she explained.
Dr. Gupta expects a decrease in cases as temperatures drop by 5-10 degrees in the coming weeks.
Dr. Suman Singh stressed the importance of vigilance, especially through mid-November. “As the daytime temperatures fall or with the onset of rain, we can expect a decrease in dengue risk,” she said.
The Health Department has issued an advisory urging residents to observe “Dry Day” every Saturday, promoting the practice of emptying and drying water containers to reduce mosquito breeding.
To support the increased demand for platelets, GMSH-16’s blood bank operates three machines that separate blood into components like plasma and platelets.
They maintain an extensive donor list, with NGOs and police personnel ready to assist in emergencies.
Additionally, dedicated dengue wards have been set up in major hospitals across the city.
Free dengue tests, including NS1 and IgM ELISA, are available at GMSH-16, GMCH-32, and PGIMER.
Malaria tests are also offered at no cost at Ayushman Arogya Mandir, Civil Hospital, and GMSH-16.
Residents can report concerns about fogging and spraying via the dengue helpline at 7626002036.
