Chandigarh, Nov 10
The increasing number of dengue cases in Haryana has become a major concern for the health department, with hundreds of patients visiting hospitals across districts daily. So far, over 4,329 cases have been reported, resulting in three deaths. Panchkula is the most affected area, recording 1,226 cases to date. Hisar, Karnal, Kurukshetra, Sonipat, and Panipat have also reported a significant number of cases.
In response to the growing dengue cases, Health Minister Anil Vij wrote a letter to Panchayat Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, pointing out that the fogging measures do not appear effective enough given the current situation. She emphasized that, given the surge in dengue cases, fogging activities are insufficient and need to be expanded across villages and towns. The minister instructed all Deputy Commissioners, CEOs, and District Council Panchayat authorities to routinely monitor and enhance dengue control activities personally.
Dengue Impact Unusually High in November
The Health Minister noted that dengue, typically at its peak in October, usually subsides by November due to cooler temperatures. However, this year the situation is different, with dengue cases continuing to rise. Immediate strengthening of dengue control activities is required, especially in highly affected areas, with an increase in fogging operations. She attributed the sustained dengue cases partially to slower-than-expected temperature drops from mid-October to early November.
Current Actions
To combat dengue, the health department is conducting vector control activities and fogging around households with dengue-positive cases in urban areas. The responsibility for fogging in urban regions has been assigned to Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), while Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are responsible for rural areas.
Sufficient Testing Kits Available
The state reports no shortage of dengue testing kits in key areas. Districts such as Sonipat, Jind, Rewari, Narnaul, Karnal, Kurukshetra, and Kaithal have adequate testing kits. Rohtak has eight kits available, Jhajjar has six kits, and an additional order for 20 kits has been placed. On average, around 1,300 people are seeking dengue testing across 16 districts.
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