The health department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken stringent measures to combat the rising cases of dengue in the city. As part of its efforts, the department has issued 172 notices to societies and commercial buildings for not clearing mosquito breeding sites and has collected fines amounting to ₹1 lakh. In the past six months alone, 21 confirmed cases of dengue have been reported in Pune.
Pune ranks among the top 10 cities in Maharashtra with a significant number of dengue cases, although Mumbai leads the chart. The accumulation of rainwater and poor civic upkeep have been identified as the primary reasons for the spread of the disease. According to Suryakant Deokar, assistant health officer of PMC, out of the 469 suspected cases of dengue reported from January to June 2023, 21 were confirmed. Furthermore, civic health officials have issued notices to builders and housing societies that failed to adhere to guidelines and have collected fines as a consequence.
With the onset of the monsoon season, PMC is actively preparing to tackle the outbreak of vector-borne diseases. The civic body has issued advisories to housing societies and slum dwellers, urging them to maintain cleanliness and eliminate mosquito breeding sites on their premises. Govind Satpute from the insect surveillance department of PMC stated, “We started fumigation of breeding spots just ahead of the monsoon and are conducting regular inspections of areas where water accumulates and mosquitoes can breed. Other measures such as fogging and the application of appropriate medicines are being taken to control mosquito breeding.”
Efficient waste management across the city is crucial in curbing the spread of vector-borne diseases, as mosquitoes can breed in stagnant water. Jalindar Chandgude, a health inspector from the Aundh ward office, mentioned that advisory measures have been implemented to control the spread of dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. The situation is currently under control, with 95 percent of garbage collection cleared within their jurisdiction.
Health experts are advising citizens to be cautious about the food and water they consume. It is recommended to avoid consuming fruits and salads from street vendors and to drink clean and boiled water. Additionally, individuals are advised not to frequently get wet in the rain. Dr. NC Edul, a senior physician from Ruby Hall Clinic, emphasized the need to protect oneself against allergens during the monsoon season and suggested wearing a mask when going outside, especially for individuals who are sensitive to dust, vapors, or pollution. Keeping prescribed anti-allergy medicine handy at all times is also recommended.
In the rural areas of Pune district, the Maharashtra state epidemiology department has reported 137 cases of dengue as of June 30, 2023.
Looking back at the previous year, data from the PMC health department reveals that between July and December 2022, Pune recorded approximately 5,194 suspected dengue cases, with up to 687 individuals testing positive in the first six months.
