IMPHAL, Oct 9: Manipur has reported a surge in dengue cases this year, with three fatalities and 1,439 infections recorded between January and October 9, 2024, according to state health department officials on Wednesday. The districts of Imphal West and Imphal East are the most affected, with Imphal East alone registering 700 cases.
The data, collected from government hospitals such as the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) and Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS), also includes reports from private hospitals in Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. So far, no cases have been reported from the hill districts, as confirmed by T Nepolian, the malaria officer for Imphal East.
All three dengue-related deaths have occurred in urban areas. In response, the state malaria department has intensified fogging efforts in over 60 locations, including Keishamthong, Sega Road, Haobam Marak, and Uripok, among others.
Health officials have urged residents to collaborate in eradicating mosquito breeding sites to help curb the spread of the disease. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection common in tropical areas, with symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash. Severe cases can lead to complications, including serious bleeding and shock, particularly in individuals who contract the virus for a second time.
