Dengue Cases Rise While Winter Fever Declines in Mumbai
In an unusual twist to seasonal disease patterns, Maharashtra has witnessed a notable rise in dengue cases while experiencing a decrease in winter fever incidents this year. Although both diseases are typically more prevalent during the monsoon, this year has seen sporadic occurrences throughout different months.
According to the state’s Public Health Department, the number of winter fever cases has dropped significantly compared to the previous year. In 2024, the state recorded 15,670 winter fever cases, a reduction of nearly 4,000 from the 19,968 cases reported in 2023. Tragically, 18 people lost their lives due to winter fever this year, compared to 23 in 2023. Among the regions, Mumbai registered the highest number of winter fever cases, with 7,806 patients, followed by Gadchiroli, which recorded 6,576 cases. However, Gadchiroli also saw the highest number of fatalities, with 13 deaths.
While winter fever cases have decreased, the number of dengue cases has risen slightly this year. In 2024, 19,160 dengue cases were reported across the state, compared to 19,034 cases in 2023. Despite the small increase, the state has made significant progress in reducing the number of deaths. In 2024, 26 people succumbed to dengue, a significant reduction from the 55 deaths reported last year. Mumbai again reported the highest number of dengue cases, with 5,851 patients, followed by Kolhapur, Nashik, and other regions. While fatalities were concentrated in Mumbai, the most significant number of dengue deaths occurred in Raigad.
Additionally, Maharashtra has also seen a sharp rise in chikungunya cases, with 5,757 cases reported this year. This represents a substantial increase from 2023, when only 1,702 cases were recorded. Nagpur, Pune, and Mumbai were the hardest-hit areas, with Nagpur alone accounting for 1,088 cases. Despite these rises in vector-borne diseases, the state’s health department has emphasised its success in reducing mortality, highlighting improved awareness, timely interventions, and better management of outbreaks. However, health officials continue to urge residents to take precautions to control the spread of these diseases, particularly as the state grapples with the complex interplay of seasonal changes and public health challenges.
