Gurgaon has marked a concerning situation by surpassing 200 dengue cases on Monday and one reported fatality. Approximately 75% of these cases have been severe enough to require hospitalization, as reported by the health department.
They’ve identified the main virus strain as DENV 2 or D2, which is more dangerous than other strains. According to Dr. Jai Parkash from Gurgaon’s health department, ongoing daily awareness campaigns and rigorous inspections to control breeding sites have been instrumental in managing the situation.
Charkhi Dadri has reported the highest number of dengue cases in Haryana, with 441 cases, followed by Rewari with 323 cases. Among the 16 new cases recorded in the state on Monday, two were reported in Gurgaon.
Dr. Virender Yadav, the Chief Medical Officer in Gurgaon, emphasized that the number of cases was higher last year, and currently, Gurgaon does not rank among the ten districts with the highest incidence rates. Adequate healthcare facilities have been provided, with 45 beds available at the Civil Hospital in Sector 10 and 10 beds each in Sohna, Farrukhnagar, and Pataudi to cater to dengue patients.
Out of 50 samples sent for strain identification, 21 have been confirmed as DENV2. Results for 79 more samples are pending. Symptoms associated with this viral strain include a sudden drop in platelet count, high fever, headaches, and, in some cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Wazirabad, PHC Gurgaon, Garhi, Manesar, Badshahpur, and Bhangrola are among the areas most affected by dengue in Gurgaon. Among the reported cases, 152 required hospitalization, with 104 admitted to government hospitals, 14 in private healthcare facilities, and 49 treated as outpatients.
In contrast, malaria cases remain at zero in the district. Vigilant measures to prevent mosquito breeding include sending 16,614 notices under municipal bye-laws. The health department regularly issues directives and guidelines on key preventive measures against dengue, along with a list of do’s and don’ts, and common symptoms for public awareness.
Tragically, in late August, a 30-year-old man in Gurgaon succumbed to dengue, marking the first fatality attributed to the vector-borne disease in the area this year. He was admitted to a private hospital on August 17, tested positive for dengue, and eventually passed away due to dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Here are some essential precautions to follow
1. Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply an effective mosquito repellent to exposed skin and clothing.
2. Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes to minimize exposed skin.
3. Use Mosquito Nets: Sleep under a bed net treated with insect repellent if you don’t have access to air conditioning or effective window screens.
4. Eliminate Breeding Sites: Mosquitoes that carry dengue breed in standing water. Regularly empty, cover, or treat containers that can collect and hold water. Clean clogged roof gutters and drainages.
5. Keep Windows and Doors Screened: Ensure that windows and doors have screens without any holes to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
6. Use Air Conditioning: If available, use air conditioning or window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your living areas.
7. Seek Prompt Medical Attention: If you develop symptoms of dengue fever, such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, or bleeding, seek medical care promptly. Early diagnosis and medical treatment can help prevent severe complications.
Remember that dengue-carrying mosquitoes typically bite during daylight hours. Taking these precautions can significantly reduce your risk of contracting dengue fever.
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