Dengue Surges in Ahmedabad: September Sees Alarming Spike

Dengue cases in Ahmedabad saw a sharp increase in September, with the city recording 640 infections between September 1 and September 27. This figure represents 51.1% of the approximately 1,228 dengue cases reported from January 1 to September 27. A recent lull in the monsoon season created optimal conditions for mosquito breeding, despite ongoing efforts by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) to curb their proliferation.

In addition to dengue, Ahmedabad recorded 103 cases of simple malaria, 27 cases of falciparum malaria, and seven cases of chikungunya during the same period. The AMC is conducting inspections of commercial units, especially construction sites, and sealing any locations found to be conducive to mosquito breeding. These efforts are concentrated in areas with high construction activity.

Dengue infections are particularly prevalent in areas such as Gota, Jagatpur, Chandkheda, Bodakdev, and Thaltej. The AMC is also surveying open plots with stagnant rainwater to drain the water and spray insecticides, while simultaneously conducting public awareness campaigns and fumigating residential and commercial zones.

Paediatricians note a modest increase in dengue cases among children, advising full-sleeved clothing as a precaution. Beyond mosquito-borne illnesses, Ahmedabad also reported a substantial number of cases for gastroenteritis (4,114 year-to-date), jaundice (600 year-to-date), and typhoid (1,655 year-to-date). Water quality tests also revealed issues, with nine out of 46,080 samples testing negative for chlorine and 19 out of 6,585 samples deemed unfit for consumption.