According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), there has been a rise in vector-borne diseases in Mumbai this week. A total of 756 malaria cases and 703 dengue cases were reported in the city from September 1 to September 18. The health bulletin of BMC stated that the increase in cases is due to the expansion of reporting units from 22 to 880, which now include BMC dispensaries, BMC hospitals, HBT clinics, additional private labs, and private hospitals.
The BMC data shows that 83,342 blood slides were collected for malaria, 11,926 houses were inspected, and 33,560 breeding sources were inspected in the past 18 days. The civic authorities also detected 1,270 Anopheles mosquito breeding spots in the city.
To prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases, the BMC has shared the following advisory:
– Use mosquito nets while sleeping and wear complete clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
– Keep workplaces, residences, and surroundings clean to prevent mosquito breeding. Remove items such as tins, thermocol boxes, coconut shells, tires, and other objects that can collect standing water.
– Seek medical help immediately if you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, rashes, muscle and joint pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. Do not delay treatment as it can lead to complications and even death.
– If diagnosed with malaria, follow the complete treatment as advised by your doctor.
In addition to malaria and dengue, the BMC also reported seven H1N1 cases, 322 gastro cases, 50 leptospirosis cases, and 19 chikungunya cases in Mumbai this month.
Sources:
– Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
– Image: iStock
