Humaira Raina
Dengue cases across India have surged in 2024, with over 150,000 cases reported nationwide by September. States like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and J&K have witnessed alarming spikes, putting immense pressure on healthcare systems.
The dengue outbreak in Jammu has taken a worrying turn, with a sharp rise in cases reported over the months of August and September. The situation, if not contained, could further escalate, putting immense pressure on the healthcare system of the region.
The rise in dengue cases in Jammu started early in August and continued to surge through September. This year, the region saw a particularly high incidence of mosquito breeding due to prolonged monsoon rains, which created favorable conditions for the Aedes mosquitoes, the primary carriers of the dengue virus.
According to the data provided by the Health Department of J&K, Dengue cases in Jammu and surrounding districts are on the rise, with 62 new cases reported on September 16, 2024, bringing the total count for the year to 692. Jammu district saw the highest spike with 45 cases, followed by Udhampur with 10. The majority of cases are among adults, while children accounted for 10 cases. Comparatively, the number of dengue cases has decreased from 1,156 cases by this time in 2023. Health authorities emphasize preventive measures, particularly in affected areas, urging residents to eliminate stagnant water and use protective clothing to prevent mosquito breeding and bites.
According to the data municipal area cases are 387 and Non-Municipal area cases is 48.
The main areas affected include densely populated urban centers such as Gandhi Nagar, Trikuta Nagar, and Janipur. Rural areas have also seen a significant rise in dengue cases, with villages near the Tawi River being particularly vulnerable due to stagnant water, a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Hospitals across Jammu have been overwhelmed with the number of dengue patients. Both government and private hospitals are struggling to accommodate the influx of patients, with many healthcare facilities running out of space. Special dengue wards have been set up at the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu and other leading hospitals to cater to the rising number of cases. Dr. DJ Raina State Malariologist J&K Directorate Health Services Jammu said, “The situation is critical. We are witnessing a daily increase in dengue cases, and our hospital is working at full capacity. We have set up special teams to monitor and manage the dengue cases, but the numbers are still rising.”
State Malarialogist J&K Directorate health service Jammu has also issued Advisory for dengue.
The increase in cases has also led to a shortage of platelets, which are often required for treating severe cases of dengue. Many patients with low platelet counts are being referred to other medical facilities due to a shortage of blood products in Jammu’s blood banks. The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and the Directorate of Health Services Jammu have initiated several measures to control the spread of dengue. These include intensified fogging operations in mosquito-prone areas, distribution of mosquito repellents, and public awareness campaigns on the importance of maintaining cleanliness. However, despite these efforts, the situation remains dire. Many residents have expressed concern over the inadequate measures taken by local authorities, particularly in areas where waterlogging and poor sanitation are prevalent.
Peoples, said, “The authorities are not doing enough. We have been complaining about waterlogging in our area for weeks, and there has been no action. The mosquitoes are everywhere, and now so many people are getting sick.”
The Jammu and Kashmir government has also sought assistance from the central government to tackle the dengue crisis. A team of experts from the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program (NVBDCP) is expected to visit the region to assess the situation and suggest further measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause severe flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, and rash. In severe cases, dengue can lead to dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
The Health Department has urged residents to take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito bites. These include using mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing, applying mosquito repellents, and ensuring that there is no stagnant water around homes, which can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Residents are also advised to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of dengue. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and reduce the risk of severe dengue.
Public awareness is key to controlling the dengue outbreak. The JMC, in collaboration with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local communities, has started a door-to-door campaign to educate people about the importance of maintaining hygiene and keeping their surroundings free from mosquito breeding sites. The Health Department has also launched an awareness campaign through radio and television channels, urging people to be cautious and take preventive measures. Schools and colleges are being involved in these campaigns, with students being encouraged to spread the message about dengue prevention.
In addition to these efforts, several voluntary blood donation drives are being organized to ensure an adequate supply of platelets for dengue patients.
However, experts believe that a more comprehensive and long-term strategy is needed to effectively tackle the dengue outbreak in Jammu. This includes improving sanitation infrastructure, regular fumigation, and better waste management practices in both urban and rural areas. As the monsoon season comes to an end, it is expected that the number of dengue cases will gradually decline. However, with October still being warm and humid, health officials are concerned that the mosquito population may persist, prolonging the dengue crisis. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and continue taking preventive measures even after the monsoon ends. The Health Department has assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to control the spread of dengue, but community cooperation is essential in this fight against the disease.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Jammu can bring the dengue outbreak under control or whether more aggressive measures will be needed to curb its spread.
The dengue outbreak in Jammu during August and September 2024 has been alarming, with a record number of cases putting a strain on the healthcare system. While efforts are being made to control the spread, the situation remains critical, and a concerted effort by both the authorities and the public is needed to tackle this public health crisis effectively.
