The surging dengue cases in Delhi demand public cooperation as several mosquito breeding spaces have been identified in houses. In the last week, over 100 people have been diagnosed with dengue. Till September 17, about 159 cases had been reported in Delhi, indicating a massive spike in the number of dengue cases. Presently, the national capital has reported nearly 400 cases. According to an MCD officer, cases may increase due to a lack of public cooperation and sensitisation.
While speaking to TDG, an MCD officer said, “There are several mosquito breeding areas in Delhi, including houses, which lead to rising dengue cases. It is not possible to check all the houses and offices. We need strong public cooperation to fight dengue, and also, the adult mosquitoes need to be eliminated quickly.” According to the Lok Sabha, dated August 5, 2022, the cases have been increasing tremendously; in 2020, Delhi reported 1269 cases, whereas in 2021, 13089 cases were reported. To keep an eye on dengue cases, MCD also launched a WhatsApp helpline where one can send dengue-related complaints. Earlier, SDMC undertook a significant effort to identify and eliminate larvae breeding in exposed areas such as construction sites, drains, water bodies, water installations, and open spaces. Strict actions have also been taken against DMRC, DJB, and DDA after spotting mosquito larvae on their premises.
Domestic Breeding Checking (DBC) staff inspected over 27 lakh households at the start of this year. During the inspection, around 8,000 homes were discovered to have breeding mosquitoes. More than 2 lakh homes have been sprayed with anti-larvicide, and DBC staff have informed the public about mosquito breeding.
As of now, no deaths have been reported. Most of the dengue cases are reported between July and November, and that may extend until mid-December.