Union Health Secretary Urges Vigilance to Curb Rising Dengue Cases

Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra alerts states and municipalities to stay vigilant against dengue as cases rise. He recommends identifying hotspots, enhancing vector surveillance, and geotagging cases. Chandra also pushes for collaboration among ministries and local bodies to prepare for the seasonal peak during the monsoon and post-monsoon months.

Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra urged states and municipalities to stay vigilant and proactively address dengue outbreaks. In a health ministry statement, Chandra recommended identifying hotspots, boosting vector surveillance, and geotagging cases for effective preventive measures.

Chandra emphasized the importance of cooperation among stakeholders, including the urban development ministry, states, municipal corporations, and local self-government bodies, to manage dengue effectively. The remarks came during a high-level inter-ministerial meeting aimed at assessing preparedness in nine high-burden states ahead of the monsoon season.

Chandra pointed out the seasonal peak of dengue cases from August to November and stressed the need for preemptive public health measures. He highlighted that cases have surged by nearly 50% compared to last year, insisting on increased readiness and hospital resources to tackle the rise. Despite the rising number of cases, he noted a decline in the Dengue Case Fatality Rate due to focused and collaborative efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)