PUNE: The Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) Health Department has issued 1,783 notices between January 1 and September 18 to control mosquito breeding sites across the city. There have been a total of 441 positive cases of dengue this year with maximum cases in August with 152 patients testing positive.
The Pune Municipal Corporation issued 687 notices in July, which were the highest so far this year. It has collected a fine of Rs 1,78,850.
Since January 1, the PMC has collected a fine of Rs 2,46,301 from property owners for not controlling mosquito breeding grounds for dengue in residential as well as commercial areas.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Assistant Health Chief of PMC Dr Sanjeev Wavare said that there are around 300 officials working within the PMC limits to check breeding spots.
“We are thoroughly engaged in information, education and communication to check and reduce these dengue cases. There are 15 wards under surveillance in the city,” said Dr Wavare.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Mahendra Dadke from Jupiter Hospital said that patients should consult a doctor once there are preliminary symptoms.
“Most patients show less platelet count when they are dengue positive. Patients should consult a doctor and undergo tests which the doctor advises. Moreover, if the patient wants to avoid getting admitted to a hospital, they should stay hydrated and take rest. There are popular myths that Kiwi and papaya leaves help increase the platelet count. This is not true,” said Dr Dadke.
He added that during monsoon, there is a surge in vector-borne diseases like dengue. “Residents should keep the area clean and also remove stagnant water to avoid any mosquito breeding spots,” added Dr Dadke.
Chief Consultant Paediatrics and Neonatology at Motherhood Hospital Kharadi Dr Tushar Parikh said that a couple of patients test positive for dengue daily at the hospital.
“There is a sudden surge in these cases following the onset of rains. We are seeing that in one family, 3 to 4 members get affected simultaneously with viral fever or dengue. The reason is that stagnant water is commonly seen where new constructions are going on. This invites breeding of mosquitoes leading to spread of dengue,” said Dr Parikh.
He added that children with dengue have high fever with body pain, extreme weakness and headache. They should stay home and take rest.
