Kochi: Ernakulam has now become the ‘dengue capital’ of Kerala, with Kalamassery municipality emerging as the hotspot for the majority of reported cases. In June, Kalamassery recorded 115 confirmed dengue cases, averaging four new cases per day.
This figure has sharply increased in July, with an average of nine cases reported daily. Within the first seven days of July, Kalamassery reported 60 confirmed dengue cases, accounting for almost 28% of the total 221 cases reported in the district. In contrast, while a similar number of cases have been reported within the Kochi Corporation limits, these are scattered across a wider area. In Kalamassery, however, cases are predominantly concentrated near the Kalamassery Medical College and adjacent areas close to Edapally.
Municipal health authorities have expressed uncertainty regarding the reasons for the surge in cases but have attributed the spike to public negligence. “There were only 22 confirmed cases till May 25. However, the number of cases skyrocketed following heavy rains. The primary cause is the improper disposal of waste in public places and open lands, leading to water accumulation during rains and subsequently breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” stated a municipal health official. In Kochi city, the most affected areas include Kaloor, Thammanam, Vennala, Ponnurunni, and Chambakkara. Thammanam councillor Sakeer Thammanam mentioned that they provide funds to ASHA workers for purchasing mosquito repellents, as there has been no substantial support from the government system.
In response to the escalating dengue crisis, the district public health committee convened a meeting on Monday and resolved to initiate an intensive cleaning drive across all wards in local bodies before the next new moon day. “An emergency meeting will be conducted at the municipal/panchayat level, followed by ward-level meetings to identify and implement cleaning measures on a war footing. The initiative will involve people from all walks of life, including students, Kudumbashree workers, and traders. A budget of Rs 50,000 per ward has been allocated for the cleaning efforts. Medical authorities in the respective areas will oversee the operations,” said an official from district panchayat.
The PMC’s strategy to tackle the dengue outbreak underscores the critical importance of community involvement and proactive measures in public health crises. The initiative aims to eliminate mosquito breeding sites through extensive cleaning drives, thereby curbing the spread of dengue. Ernakulam’s public health officials urge residents to remain vigilant and participate actively in the cleaning drives. The concerted effort of local authorities and the community is essential to mitigate the outbreak and safeguard public health. By addressing the root causes, such as water stagnation and waste disposal, the district hopes to reduce the incidence of dengue and prevent future outbreaks.
