Dengue cases nearly half in state this year, no need to worry: Suvendu Adhikari

West Bengal's Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Tuesday that the state has seen a 50% reduction in dengue cases this year compared to the previous year. Speaking at a meeting with health officials at Swasthya Bhavan, Adhikari reported that there have been 148 dengue positive cases so far, representing a significant decrease from the 7,600 cases recorded last year.

Only one death has been attributed to the disease. Adhikari assured the public that there is no need for alarm, emphasizing that the situation appears to be under control. He attributed this improvement to increased public awareness and vigilance.

Twelve wards in Kolkata have reported dengue cases, but 61 wards in the city have been declared dengue-free. Among other districts, Murshidabad and Nadia have been most affected, with Murshidabad reporting nine cases and Nadia 11.

Adhikari directed the health department to monitor the situation until November and instructed officials to distribute mosquito nets and use fog machines to combat the disease. He also emphasized that individuals experiencing fever, especially prolonged cases, should seek free dengue tests. The chief minister urged health officials to record data without hesitation, emphasizing that the municipality and administration are capable of managing the situation.

Additionally, a special cleaning drive is planned in Kolkata on September 3, 4, and 5. Adhikari criticized the previous Trinamool Congress government for allegedly manipulating dengue data, alleging that doctors were prevented from recording such cases.