Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Aug 16: The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir has started reporting dengue cases this year, with a total of 39 cases confirmed so far, including two cases from Kashmir, both of which had travel history.
State Malariologist Dr D J Raina informed about the situation and urged the public to take preemptive measures to prevent the spread of this vector-borne disease.
Dr Raina said that in the absence of a dengue vaccine, proactive prevention is essential. “Authorities are implementing effective measures to minimise the spread of dengue this year,” he said, urging people to remain vigilant but not panic.
Despite an increase in testing rates, the number of cases remains relatively low. Dr Raina urged people to take proactive steps to keep dengue at bay. He advised individuals who test positive for dengue to prioritize rest, stay hydrated and consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. He strongly warned against self-medication, particularly the use of painkillers, which can worsen the condition by increasing the risk of bleeding in severe cases.
The malariologist said that testing facilities are available at every district hospital, with 20 beds allocated specifically for dengue patients.
“From this year, samples are being collected at block-level sub-district hospitals and transported to district hospitals under cold chain conditions for testing. Suspected patients will be informed of their results via WhatsApp or phone,” he informed.
To combat the spread of dengue, Dr Raina said they have formulated a comprehensive approach, including managing and modifying environments to prevent mosquitoes from accessing egg-laying habitats. This involves proper disposal of solid waste, removal of artificial water-holding containers, and regular cleaning of domestic water storage units. He also recommended the appropriate use of insecticides in outdoor water storage containers.
Dr Raina said the primary vector of dengue, the Aedes mosquito, has adapted to urban environments and breeds primarily in man-made containers such as buckets, mud pots, discarded containers, used tyres, and any stagnant collections of water. He urged regular cleaning of these breeding sites and advised people to wear clothing that minimizes skin exposure to mosquito bites, particularly during dusk and dawn when the Aedes mosquito is most active.
The department has intensified preventive activities such as vector control (bio-larvicide fish, spraying, and fogging) and awareness campaigns (via print, electronic, social media, and public announcements) to educate the public about dengue prevention.
Healthcare professionals recommend eliminating stagnant water around homes, schools, and workplaces to prevent mosquito breeding. They advise covering the body and using mosquito nets while sleeping to avoid bites. Common symptoms of dengue include fever, headache, eye pain (typically behind the eyes), muscle, joint or bone pain, rash, nausea, and vomiting.
Last year, Jammu & Kashmir reported around 6,403 dengue cases, while 8,269 cases were recorded in 2022, the highest number on record, with 18 fatalities. Previous years saw varying case numbers, with significant spikes in some years.
