Pune | September 8, 2026
Pune is recording a rise in suspected dengue cases alongside an increase in chikungunya infections, prompting the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to intensify mosquito-control measures and issue notices to 2,231 homes and institutions for failing to prevent mosquito breeding.
According to data from the PMC’s vector-borne disease department, the city recorded 485 suspected dengue cases in August. A further 76 suspected cases were reported in the first few days of September. The civic department has attributed the increase in mosquito breeding to higher humidity and stagnant water in parts of the city.
The PMC has collected fines totalling Rs 4.46 lakh from premises where officials found conditions that could support mosquito breeding. Notices were issued to residential properties and institutions as part of the civic body’s prevention campaign.
Data from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) showed that 21 people tested positive for dengue and 14 for chikungunya in August. Chikungunya cases had remained at seven between January and July, but increased substantially during August, according to the report.
The civic body has increased fogging and mosquito-control drives in identified hotspots. Assistant health officer Dr Rajesh Dighe said preventive measures were being carried out around the homes of patients as soon as cases were detected. These measures are intended to limit the spread of mosquito-borne infections in affected neighbourhoods.
Medical experts cited in the report said that 15% to 20% of patients visiting municipal outpatient departments were testing positive for dengue. They warned that people with co-morbidities, including diabetes, heart disease, kidney disorders and cancer, could face serious complications after contracting dengue or chikungunya.
Doctors have advised patients to seek medical attention if they experience high fever, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, low blood pressure, severe weakness or persistent vomiting. They have also advised people to consult a doctor if fever continues for two to three days, as the risk of falling platelet counts and complications can increase during this period.
Patients have been advised not to self-medicate and to seek medical help if they develop abdominal pain, vomiting or reduced urine output. Adequate water and other fluids, along with a nutritious diet, have also been recommended.
The PMC’s current response includes intensified fogging, preventive action around reported cases and enforcement against premises where mosquito breeding is found. The civic body’s mosquito-control campaign remains focused on hotspot areas as September begins.
