Delhi: Dengue cases have spiralled in the city over the past two weeks

Usually, the cases of vector-borne diseases are reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. However, till January 13 no vector-borne disease case was reported.

According to a municipal report released on Monday, over the past two weeks, dengue cases have spiralled in the city, with at least 650 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season. According to the PTI report, the report says nearly 170 of the cases came to light in the first week of October alone. Also, as per as the report 347 cases of malaria and 89 of chikungunya have been reported this season till October 6.

A senior doctor at a government-run facility advised people to take all precautions, like wearing full-sleeves and not allowing the breeding of mosquito larvae inside their homes. The doctor reportedly said that water coolers should be dried up when not in use as dengue infection carrying mosquitoes breed there a lot. Mosquito nets should be used at home.

Usually, the cases of vector-borne diseases are reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. However, till January 13 no vector-borne disease case was reported.

The report said domestic breeding checkers found mosquito breeding in 1,92,928 households in the city till October 6. It said 1,58,067 legal notices have been served for various violations and "22,240 prosecutions initiated".

A few months ago, as a pro-active measure, Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal has directed local bodies and other agencies to intensify vector-control measures. Reportedly, to review the situation in their respective districts he has also asked for regular meetings at the level of district magistrates with all stakeholders.

According to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, last year 10 people died due to dengue in Delhi, of whom five were not residents of the national capital. Overall, last year the vector-borne disease had affected 9,271 people in the city.