Dengue Cases Surge in West Bengal, Health Officials Say Situation Under Control

GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 8th August. The number of dengue cases in West Bengal has seen a sharp rise, with approximately 500 people, mostly from rural areas, contracting the mosquito-borne viral disease in the last week of July, according to a health department official on Thursday. Despite the surge, officials assure that the situation is under control.

Since January, West Bengal has recorded at least 2,640 dengue cases, with North 24 Parganas district reporting the highest number at 363 cases. Between July 24 and 31, the state saw around 500 new cases, with 68 reported in Murshidabad district and 50 in North 24 Parganas.

“There has been a rise in dengue cases since the last week of July, primarily due to the monsoon season. We observe such a spike in dengue cases almost every year at this time. There is nothing to worry about. The situation is under control,” the official told PTI.

During the final week of July, Malda district reported 53 cases, followed by Hooghly with 50, Purba Bardhaman with 44, and South 24 Parganas with 32. Kolkata and its adjoining areas recorded 18 cases during the same period.

“Like every year, the highest number of dengue cases was reported from North 24 Parganas district since January, totaling 363 this year,” the official said. Malda district came in second with 358 cases, followed by Murshidabad with 325, Hooghly with 250, and Kolkata with 210. South 24 Parganas reported 180 cases, while Purba Bardhaman had 150.

Despite early initiation of dengue awareness programs, some areas experienced a surge in cases due to the casual approach of the people, the health department official noted.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. Its symptoms include high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, along with characteristic skin itching and rash. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread.