Dengue strikes early this year, 654 cases in January, February

JAIPUR: Resurfacing of dengue cases in January and February, which is quite unusual, has left health authorities and doctors baffled.
Dengue’s virulence has become a cause of concern as 321 cases have already been reported in Jaipur in January and February. However, the number of cases being reported now is much less compared to the start of the new year.

So far, 654 cases of dengue have been reported in the entire state, Jaipur having a major share with 321 cases. Thus, explaining the early deployment of fogging machines.

This is the time when health authorities start planning and preparing calendar for activities to prevent spread of vector-borne diseases which are usually reported during and after rains.

Not only dengue, chikungunya cases have also been reported earlier this time. Jaipur reported 51 cases of chikungunya while 21 persons in Jhunjhunu were diagnosed with the disease. A total of 105 cases of chikungunya have already been reported from state.

While JMC is making tall claims of cleanliness, mosquito-borne diseases being reported earlier than usual indicate the opposite.

“Dengue cases have been reported in increased numbers early this year. We are taking all preventive measures,” a senior health department official said.

Besides, 37 dengue cases were reported in Kota, Ajmer 34, Alwar 31, Bharatpur 31, Sikar 27 and Jhunjhunu had 24 cases.