Mumbai: Rain related ailments dip with slowing monsoon

Mumbai: Rain related diseases have started declining in the city with monsoon activity slowing, but dengue continues to be a cause for concern. BMC on Tuesday said dengue cases are increasing and urged citizens to prevent breeding of mosquitoes.

"Dengue cases are rising and people must ensure there is no breeding at their homes and workplaces," said Dr Mangala Gomare, BMC's executive health officer. Typically, Mumbai sees a surge in dengue cases from August when rain is intermittent, making it favourable for mosquitoes to breed. In the four days of September, nearly 30 confirmed cases have been reported, while in August, nearly 170 cases were notified to BMC. Overall, 382 dengue cases and two deaths have been reported this year.

Physician Dr Pratit Samdani said hospitals are seeing many admissions due to dengue and malaria. Nearly 90 cases of malaria have been reported. BMC said fever, headache, rash, muscle and joint pain and vomiting should not be taken lightly.

Cases of influenza H1N1 (swine flu) that saw a significant jump in August have started to decline. BMC was notified of three cases in the first four days of September; in August, nearly 190 cases were reported.

Infectious disease expert Dr Vasant Nagvekar said H1N1 and Covid cases were declining, and there are few admissions due to viral diseases.

Dr Samdani said respiratory diseases played havoc this monsoon as many people fell ill with flu like symptoms.