Dengue cases rise in Karnataka ahead of monsoon, with Bengaluru worst-hit
Bengaluru: Dengue cases are climbing steadily across Karnataka even before the onset of monsoon, raising concerns among health officials about an early and intense outbreak.
Between Jan and April 30, the state recorded 1,186 cases, with six requiring hospitalisation.
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Bengaluru has emerged as the hotspot, reporting nearly half the cases (522), followed by Tumakuru (78).
According to health department data, in just one month, dengue cases jumped from 707 (as of the week ending March 2) to 1,186 by the end of April — a 65% jump even before peak transmission season begins. Fifty-one of the cases were children aged under one, and 553 aged under 18.
Even though the number of dengue cases this year is lower than that during the corresponding period last year (Jan to April 30), health officials remain concerned.
Ansar Ahmed, project director of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, confirmed that all six dengue hospitalisations so far were from areas under BBMP limits. Highlighting the risks, he urged citizens to eliminate stagnant water around their homes. "The current weather conditions not only favour mosquito breeding but also support the spread of various viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. The department is ramping up both awareness drives and preventive actions.
However, people need to stay alert," he said.
Dr Neha Mishra, consultant (infectious diseases), Manipal Hospitals, told TOI two dengue cases are reported daily. "Usually, we do see a slight rise in cases whenever it rains. But if this on-and-off rain continues, there's always a chance of a surge, especially with dengue season around the corner. More waterlogging means more mosquito-breeding sites, even something as small as water collected in a discarded bottle can become a breeding ground.
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Being a greener city, Bengaluru is more prone to puddles, which naturally leads to more mosquitoes and, in turn, more cases."
Chikungunya also sees rise
Karnataka has reported over 280 chikungunya cases since Jan 1, prompting health authorities to step up preventive efforts. Ansar Ahmed, project director of Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, said the state is moving swiftly to contain the spread. "We've ramped up monitoring and are optimistic that proactive measures will help control the situation," he said.
While chikungunya is generally less fatal than dengue, it often causes prolonged joint pain and fatigue, making recovery more difficult for many patients.
A senior health department official told TOI: "With each new case, we're tightening our response. We're bracing for a potential surge in the coming months and want to keep the numbers in check. Last year saw a steady rise in cases, and we're determined not to let that happen again."
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