Ernakulam has witnessed a significant rise in dengue fever cases, with three fatalities reported over the past four weeks. The victims, all women, include a 19-year-old from Maradu who passed away on August 31, an 18-year-old from Kizhakkepuram, North Paravur, and a 74-year-old resident of Vattaparambil, Kathrikadavu, who died on August 12.
The district has recorded a total of 1,043 confirmed and suspected dengue cases since August 24. The frequency of reported cases has been concerning, with an average of 74 cases noted over the past fortnight. The peak was observed on August 30, with 91 cases, though the number decreased to 65 and 48 on August 31 and September 1, respectively. However, the daily count surged again to 52 and 76 on September 2 and 3, with a total of 74 cases reported on September 6.
Notably affected areas on August 30 included Aluva, Edathala, Eroor, Fort Kochi, Kakkanad, Kalamassery, Kaloor, Kandakadavu, Kothamangalam, Kuthapady, Moolamkuzhi, Perumbavoor, Piravom, Ponnurunni, Poothotta, Thammanam, Thrikkakara, and Udayamperoor. Similarly, the highest number of cases in the preceding week was reported on August 5, with 78 cases across Binanipuram, Chambakkara, Choornikkara, Keechery, Keezhmad, Thripunithura, Thuravoor, and Mattancherry. In response to the outbreak, district authorities have urged local bodies to intensify control measures. This includes conducting fogging and sanitation drives in areas prone to dengue and ensuring proper waste management to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. The emphasis is on sustained efforts to manage and mitigate the spread of the disease effectively.
