Bengaluru Reports 1.5k Dengue Cases in 9 Days

As dengue cases in Karnataka surpass 8,000, the state government has taken decisive action by setting up ‘Dengue War Rooms’ to combat the outbreak. As of July 11, 8,221 cases have been identified, with Bengaluru (under Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike limits) reporting 2,463 cases. Seven deaths have been recorded this year due to dengue.

In a July 10 circular, the government outlined measures to enhance the monitoring and management of dengue cases during the monsoon season. Key points from the circular include:

1. War Room Setup: A central war room will be established at Arogya Soudha in Bengaluru, with control rooms in each district and at the BBMP. These will be crucial for data collection and situation assessment, ensuring timely responses to the dengue crisis.
2. District Task Force Formation: Each district will form a task force led by the Deputy Commissioner, comprising officials from health, urban development, education, and NGOs to adopt a comprehensive approach to dengue control.
3. Bi-weekly House Inspections: Health staff and volunteers will conduct inspections every two weeks to identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Volunteers will be paid Rs 200 per day for their efforts.
4. Community Engagement Campaigns: Weekly public campaigns will promote cleanliness and dengue prevention, involving local representatives and community members to encourage hygienic practices and proper water storage management.
5. Hotspot Identification and Response: Districts will identify dengue hotspots and increase efforts to reduce mosquito breeding, including mass spraying of larvicides and fogging. Fever clinics will be activated, and mosquito repellent oils will be distributed in these areas.
6. Healthcare Preparedness: Hospitals are directed to reserve beds for dengue patients and ensure the availability of testing kits, essential drugs, and blood components. Free testing and treatment will be available in all healthcare facilities.
7. Strict Treatment Protocols: Medical officers are to follow the treatment protocols specified in the Government of India’s 2023 guidelines. Tele ICU facilities are encouraged for monitoring severe cases.

These measures aim to control the spread of dengue and provide effective treatment to those affected.