Nagpur: A fresh surge in dengue infections has raised serious public health concerns in Nagpur, with the city recording 62 cases in just 15 days. Rising temperatures, increased use of air coolers, water stored in household containers and stagnant water at construction sites are creating favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, putting residents at greater risk of infection.
According to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s (NMC) Health Department, the city has reported 162 dengue cases since January. However, the actual infection burden could be higher, as the official figures may not fully reflect patients undergoing treatment at private hospitals, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (Mayo) and Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).
The rising numbers have renewed concerns over mosquito control, preventive measures and public awareness, particularly as changing weather conditions encourage the use of coolers and increase the possibility of water stagnation in residential and construction areas.
Coolers, stored water emerge as potential breeding grounds
With temperatures climbing, many households have started using air coolers. However, coolers that are not cleaned regularly or have water left standing for prolonged periods can become breeding grounds for dengue-carrying mosquitoes.
Water accumulated in overhead tanks, buckets, flowerpots, discarded cans, old tyres and other containers can pose a similar risk. Stagnant water at construction sites is another potential breeding ground, making regular inspections and timely removal of accumulated water essential.
Residents have been urged to ensure that water does not remain stagnant in and around their homes. Regularly cleaning coolers, covering water-storage containers, disposing of waste properly and keeping residential surroundings free of accumulated water are among the important preventive measures.
People should also consider wearing full-sleeved clothing, using mosquito repellents when required and installing mesh screens on windows to minimise mosquito entry.
Fever subsiding does not always mean danger is over
While preventing mosquito breeding remains crucial, doctors are also stressing the need to recognise warning signs and seek timely medical care. Although not every dengue-positive patient requires hospitalisation, close monitoring is essential to identify complications.
A particularly worrying aspect is that some patients can develop severe complications even after their fever subsides. Patients and their families should, therefore, remain alert during this period rather than assuming that the risk has passed with the reduction in temperature.
Dr Milind Vyavahare of GMCH emphasised the importance of recognising symptoms that could indicate severe dengue and require immediate medical attention.
“Not every dengue-positive patient needs to be admitted to a hospital. However, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in stools, difficulty breathing, reduced urine output, dizziness or extreme weakness are serious warning signs. Anyone experiencing these symptoms must consult a doctor immediately. There is a need to increase public awareness about these symptoms,” he said.
Collective vigilance needed to contain spread
The growing number of cases underlines the importance of coordinated action by civic authorities and residents. Regular checks for mosquito breeding sites, effective removal of stagnant water and sustained public awareness campaigns are essential to prevent further infections.
Residents should not wait for cases to rise further before taking preventive action. Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, maintaining personal protection and seeking medical advice when warning signs appear can play a critical role in limiting the impact of dengue in the city.
