CHANDIGARH: A total of 147 dengue cases have been reported from the city in five days, 26% of which were from Manimajra and 24% from Mauli Jagran — the area-specific rise due to slum areas and scrap market in these locations, according to public health experts.
“In congested areas, houses are close to each other and with this congestion, there is possibility of even a half a cup of water collection leading to breeding of dengue mosquito,” said a public health expert. He said, “There are bushes and wilderness in and around these areas. These bushes cover the collection of water and such concealed areas are commonly breeding areas of the larvae. Recently, we found an abandoned shoe and a cigarette pack which had water inside and larvae were detected.” On Monday, there were 25 new cases, pushing the count to 419. As many as 335 of them have been city residents.
The health department checked 570 houses and issued four challans. Till date, 438 challans have been issued and 7,634 notices served. The department, in its vector disease control activities, have found the main source of dengue breeding to be coolers.
Public health experts predict an upsurge in cases. “The rise will continue until another month. However, if precautions are taken, there can be a steady decline in cases as it is a non-contagious disease,” said an epidemiologist. “As the mosquito bites in the day and often children play outside till sunset, they are at a greater risk,” said the epidemiologist.
