Lagatar24 Desk
Chandigarh: The tricity region is witnessing a steady surge in dengue cases, with Panchkula leading the count at 503 cases as of September 21. Mohali follows with 194 cases, while Chandigarh has reported 25 cases so far. Health authorities have issued warnings, urging residents to remain cautious as dengue cases typically peak during this time of the year.
Dr. Arun Bansal, from the Department of Paediatrics at PGIMER, noted that dengue cases have begun to rise, and stressed the importance of consulting a doctor in case of high-grade fever and rashes. He advised that seeking early medical attention could help prevent complications.
Rising Cases in Panchkula and Mohali
In Panchkula, where the number of cases is the highest, health officials are intensifying efforts to control the outbreak. According to Dr. Suman Singh, director of health services, Chandigarh, the severity of dengue cases often depends on the strain of the virus, and this year, a mix of strains has been observed.
Similarly, in Mohali, out of the 3,339 people tested this year, 194 have tested positive for dengue. Despite the efforts of health officials, the rising numbers indicate a need for heightened precautions among the public.
Dengue Variants and Symptoms
Dengue is caused by four different virus serotypes — DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4 — meaning individuals can be infected up to four times. The DENV-2 strain, which is considered the most dangerous, has been more visible this year and is known for causing severe symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bleeding. It can also lead to complications like Dengue Haemorrhage Syndrome (DHS) and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), both of which can be fatal.
Health experts advise patients with fever lasting more than three days to get an antigen or antibody test to rule out dengue, as symptoms often resemble those of seasonal fever.
Current Health Scenario in the Tricity
Aside from dengue, cases of viral fever, cough, and cold are also rising. Hospitals across the tricity are testing 20 to 30 patients daily for illnesses such as dengue and malaria. In Chandigarh, although only 25 cases of dengue have been reported this year, authorities remain on high alert, recalling last year’s 88 cases in September alone.
At PGIMER, a major hospital catering to patients from northern states, 39 dengue cases have been reported so far this September, down from 197 last year. Other illnesses like chikungunya and influenza have shown lower counts compared to previous years, with only one case of chikungunya and seven cases of influenza reported so far.
While health officials continue to track and manage the situation, the public is urged to take preventive measures such as avoiding mosquito breeding sites, using mosquito repellents, and wearing protective clothing to minimize the risk of infection.
