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Time of India
7 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Emraan Hashmi tests positive for dengue during 'OG' shoot; experts list symptoms amid early monsoon surge
With the onset of early monsoon showers in Mumbai, there has been a spike in waterborne diseases in the city. Amid the surge, Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi tested positive for dengue on Wednesday. The actor who was last seen in the film 'Ground Zero' is currently shooting for his next movie with Pawan Kalyan and his Telugu debut 'OG'. This is when the shooting came to a halt after the actor started feeling unwell on the set and was diagnosed with dengue, as per the ToI report. According to Gulte, the actor was shooting in Aarey Colony, Goregaon, when he started experiencing dengue-like symptoms. Following this, on the recommendation of doctors, he got his tests done and discovered that he is suffering from dengue. Maharashtra sees a spike in dengue and malaria cases According to the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), Maharashtra recorded 2,726 malaria cases up to April 21 in 2025, which is marginally lower than the 2,867 cases reported back in the corresponding year of 2024. While Mumbai experiences dengue outbreaks every year, however, the intensity varies. But can the early monsoon in the city lead to the spread of dengue cases? Let's find out. Why are June and July the peak months for the rise in dengue cases? Dengue cases are rising during the monsoon and post-monsoon season as stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes. 'Currently, not only malaria but even dengue cases are surging in people of all age groups. These mosquitoes bite during early morning and late afternoon hours, making daily protection essential. Hence, people should be extra cautious,' warns Dr. Kushal Bangar, Consultant Physician and Intensivist, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, Maharashtra. According to the Mayo Clinic, dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Mild dengue fever causes a high fever and flu-like symptoms. Symptoms of dengue you should watch out for: According to Dr. Bangar, 'Adequate hydration and supportive care can reduce the risk of severe outcomes. In severe cases, hospitalisation and close monitoring may be necessary for the patient.' The symptoms of dengue include: High fever Severe headache Pain behind the eyes Joint and muscle pain Fatigue, skin rashes, and nausea. 'In some cases, it can progress to life-threatening complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome, leading to bleeding, low platelet count, and organ damage,' adds Dr. Bangar. Low immunity and genetic conditions: Who is at risk of dengue? Early diagnosis of dengue is extremely crucial. 'Children and the elderly are more vulnerable to dengue infection. Additional risk factors are staying in highly concentrated mosquito areas, unsanitary conditions, and ineffective mosquito control,' cautions Dr. Anantha Padmanabha, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru. According to Dr. Padmanabha, 'Previous dengue patients are also prone to developing severe dengue in case of infection with another serotype. Moreover, some genetic conditions, malnutrition, and pre-existing illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and pulmonary diseases may enhance the risk of developing severe dengue.' Such individuals must be cautious and prevent mosquito bites and immediately seek medical help in case of symptoms. Preventive measures to follow amid a rise in dengue cases In view of rising dengue cases during monsoon, it is imperative to take charge of health. Dr. Padmanabha suggests staying vigilant and following these crucial measures. Remember, prevention is better than a cure. Use mosquito repellents: To prevent dengue, it is necessary to use mosquito repellents. Wear full-sleeved clothes: Make sure you wear full-sleeved clothes whenever stepping outside. Use sleep under nets: Sleeping under nets is crucial to prevent waterborne diseases, especially if you are prone to dengue or malaria. Eliminate stagnation: Remove stagnant water in and around your home. So, remember to take these precautions to prevent dengue and improve the quality of life. Seek immediate medical attention: Timely management of dengue can help the patient bounce back and resume the daily routine without any difficulty. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Hindustan Times
23-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
State govt issues directive to intensify dengue, chikungunya prevention efforts
With the monsoon approaching, the state health department has directed the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) among others to intensify its efforts to prevent the spread of dengue and chikungunya, two major mosquito-borne diseases that witness a surge during and after the rainy season, officials said on Thursday. Deputy director of health services Dr Radhakishan Pawar on May 19 issued a letter to the PMC, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and district health officer, instructing all three to implement comprehensive measures for prevention and control of these diseases. Dr Pawar urged officials to ensure strict implementation of measures and submit detailed action reports. As per the order based on insights from the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), dengue and chikungunya are now seen as year-round threats and not just seasonal outbreaks. The spread and intensity of these diseases is strongly linked to changing weather patterns. 'Health officials must continuously track disease trends and take timely preventive actions as needed. All dengue and chikungunya cases must be reported on the IHIP-VBD portal. Besides, all sentinel hospitals are expected to maintain availability of government-recommended diagnostic kits, including ELISA and NS1 IgM test kits,' Dr Pawar said. The civic bodies have been directed to clearly state that updated national guidelines for clinical management of dengue and chikungunya are available on Officials have instructed civic bodies to get health workers trained by the NCVBDC to lead local training and assist in managing cases to prevent deaths; and to get hospitals ready with dedicated dengue wards, blood components, life-saving equipment and trained staff. The officials have asked for an emergency response plan to be in place to handle potential outbreaks efficiently. 'Insecticides approved by the NCVBDC should be stocked at the district level for immediate mosquito control in high-risk areas. Local authorities must keep Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) ready and ensure transport facilities for quick field action during outbreaks. Joint operations with other departments and local bodies should be organised for vector control campaigns. Additionally, Intensive IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) campaigns should be launched to educate people on prevention, personal protection, and early symptoms,' the directives read. Dr Rajesh Dighe, assistant health chief of the PMC and head of the vector-borne diseases' control programme, said that training of the healthcare staff was conducted on Tuesday. 'We will issue a letter to all departments with the roles and responsibilities to manage vector-borne diseases. Orders have been issued to maintain an adequate stock of medicines and insecticides. Tenders have been floated for the additional procurement of medicines. Besides, a meeting will be held soon to discuss management of vector-borne diseases and IEC activities,' Dr Dighe said. It is to be noted that the PMC area last year was the worst-affected due to vector-borne disease cases. Pune city reported 382 cases of dengue, 485 cases of chikungunya, 109 cases of Zika virus, and five cases of malaria. Besides, rare manifestations amongst chikungunya-infected patients like encephalitis, meningoencephalitis, myocarditis, gastroenteritis, kidney injury, sepsis and Guillain-Barré Syndrome among others were reported.
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First Post
16-05-2025
- Health
- First Post
Climate change expanding dengue's reach? Why India's fight needs more than fogging
Climate change is expanding dengue's reach in India, with rising cases in new regions. Experts urge multi-sectoral strategies beyond fogging to control outbreaks. read more A new study shows that dengue and chikungunya could soon become endemic in Europe. Dengue fever is rapidly emerging as a major health concern across India, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon months from July to mid-November. Traditionally concentrated in certain regions, the disease is now spreading to new areas such as Nagaland and parts of Himachal Pradesh, with experts attributing this expansion largely to climate change. Data from the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reveals a sharp increase in dengue cases, from 28,066 in 2010 to over 2.89 lakh in 2023. Alarmingly, more than 16,000 cases have already been reported by March 2025, signaling an early and concerning rise this year. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to a study published in The Lancet, climate-sensitive diseases like dengue are likely to rise significantly, especially in South Asia, if countries do not act urgently. Northern Indian states like Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh have started seeing regular outbreaks, a sign that the traditional 'dengue belt' is expanding. On a global scale, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that due to global warming, up to 4.7 billion people could be at risk of dengue infection by the end of this century, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive preventive measures worldwide. Dengue is caused by a virus spread by Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in warm, humid climates. As the climate changes, more parts of India are becoming suitable for mosquito breeding. Higher temperatures speed up mosquito breeding cycles and help the dengue virus multiply faster inside mosquitoes' bodies. Rainfall, flooding and even water storage during droughts create pools of stagnant water that serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes, said Dr. Vikram Jeet Singh, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Aakash Healthcare. Experts say India must take urgent steps to manage dengue in both the short and long term. In the short term, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. One of the most effective measures is the use of mosquito nets, window screens, and covers for water storage containers. When used consistently, these have been shown to significantly reduce mosquito bites and dengue transmission, said Dr. Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of Unit III, Internal Medicine, Asian Hospital. Also, biocontrol methods like introducing mosquito-eating fish into ponds and tanks have been successfully used in states like Andhra Pradesh to reduce mosquito populations without relying on chemical insecticides, Dr. Rana added. Dr Manisha Arora, Director - Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital (Delhi) said 'Obviously, climate change worsens the problem by creating ideal breeding conditions through altered temperatures and irregular rainfall. Fogging alone won't solve dengue; we need a comprehensive strategy that addresses poor sanitation and infrastructure. Strengthening healthcare systems, improving surveillance and involving the community through public education are crucial. A holistic approach including eliminating stagnant water, using mosquito nets and larval control is essential to prevent and control the menace. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Stronger partnerships between the government and the private sector can amplify the impact of control measures. Businesses can support community clean-up campaigns, fund public awareness drives, or help distribute low-cost mosquito control products, said Dr. Vineet Rao, Consultant - General Medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Baner (Pune). In remote and underserved areas with limited health infrastructure, mobile health clinics and ASHA workers can play a critical role in delivering services such as dengue testing and educating communities on prevention methods, he added. At a broader policy level, disaster response plans especially in flood-prone states like Assam and Bihar—should integrate mosquito control as a key priority. According to Dr Aakaar Kapoor, CEO and Lead Medical Advisor at City X-Ray and Scan Clinic, India should adopt Integrated Vector Management (IVM)—a coordinated approach that involves multiple sectors such as health, agriculture, urban planning, and the environment. While India's National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) includes elements of IVM, more coordination and on-ground training are needed to make it fully effective. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, emphasized that dengue's nationwide spread, amplified by climate change, brings not just fever but also serious neurological risks such as encephalitis, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. As cases surge year-round, early diagnosis and awareness are crucial. Beyond vector control and vaccines, safeguarding brain health demands urgent, coordinated, and informed public health action. Public health efforts must be supported by individuals, local communities, and government agencies alike. As India adapts to a changing climate, fighting dengue must become a top priority—not just for health, but for national development, said Dr. Vikram.
NDTV
06-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Chikungunya On Rise In Maharashtra: Follow These Tips For Fast Recovery
Maharashtra is witnessing a sharp rise in Chikungunya cases, even before the onset of monsoon. According to the National Center for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), a significant rise in chikungunya infections has been reported, from 473 cases last year to 658 this year in Maharashtra. The state also recorded 2,726 malaria cases up to April 21 this year, dengue cases declined to 1,373 from 1,639. Chikungunya: Symptoms, prevention and management Chikungunya is a viral disease that typically spreads during the monsoon. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus. It is more common in tropical and subtropical regions. Symptoms of chikungunya Chikungunya causes fever and severe joint pain. Other symptoms include: Headache Muscle pain Rash Swelling around the joints Fatigue The symptoms usually appear 4 to 8 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. While the fever typically lasts a few days, the joint pain can persist for weeks, months or even years in some cases, leading to significant discomfort. Treatment Currently, there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for chikungunya. Treatment largely involves symptom management. If you have been infected with chikungunya, follow these tips for better recovery: Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help your body recover Rest well: Give your body adequate rest for better and quick recovery. Pain relief: Chikungunya can be quite painful. Use pain relievers to alleviate joint and muscle pain. However, if you have chikungunya, always consult your doctor before starting any medication. Physical therapy: For persistent joint pain, physical therapy may be beneficial to enhance mobility and reduce discomfort. Seek medical help: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for proper and complete recovery. How to prevent chikungunya Chikungunya prevention focuses largely on reducing exposure to mosquitoes. Here are some effective strategies: 1. Eliminate breeding areas: Standing water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Remove standing water where mosquitoes can breed, such as in flower pots, buckets or old tyres. 2. Use mosquito repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET or other approved ingredients on exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito activity times (early morning and late afternoon). 3. Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and long pants can provide a physical barrier against mosquito bites. 4. Use mosquito nets: Use mosquito nets, especially in areas with high mosquito populations. 5. Install screens and keep windows, and doors closed: Make sure windows and doors are fitted with screens to keep mosquitoes outside. Also, keep them shut when not required. By taking preventive measures and managing symptoms effectively, recovery from Chikungunya can be maximised.
Time of India
06-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Chikungunya Cases In Maharashtra: Chikungunya cases go up by 185 in Maharashtra during Jan-April, ET HealthWorld
Advt Join the community of 2M+ industry professionals Subscribe to our newsletter to get latest insights & analysis. Download ETHealthworld App Get Realtime updates Save your favourite articles Scan to download App Mumbai: Even though the monsoon onset is more than a month away, the number of Chikungunya cases in Maharashtra has risen by 185 to 658 during the January-April period, compared with 473 cases recorded during the corresponding period in is a viral disease spread through mosquito bites, causing fever and severe joint pain, often accompanied by muscle pain, headache, and rash. These cases typically spike during monsoon per the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC) data, Maharashtra saw 658 cases of Chikungunya between January 1 and April 21, data shows other vector-borne diseases such as malaria, Zika virus, Japanese encephalitis, and dengue are comparatively under saw 2,726 cases of malaria and 1,373 cases of dengue from January 1, 2025, to April 21, which are marginally lower than the 2,867 cases of malaria and 1,639 cases of dengue recorded in the corresponding period of state didn't witness new Zika virus cases between January 1 and April 21. The number of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) cases stood at 30, as compared with 258 cases recorded in the corresponding period (January 1 to April 21) virus disease (ZVD) is a mosquito-borne illness transmitted by Aedes data shows no deaths were reported due to any vector-borne disease this year, whereas four persons had died of malaria in the corresponding period of part of its intensified surveillance and vector control drive, the Maharashtra health department has stepped up preventive measures, especially in urban and semi-urban regions where breeding grounds for mosquitoes tend to multiply during the pre-monsoon and monsoon periods.
