Pimpri: Despite significant efforts and lakhs of rupees spent on the "Beat Dengue" awareness campaign, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has struggled to curb the rise of dengue cases in the city.
By Friday, September 20, the total number of dengue cases had reached 162, with a noticeable spike in August and early September.
The first three cases of dengue were recorded at the end of June, with the situation worsening in July as 36 cases were reported. By August, the number of infected residents more than doubled, with 77 new cases.
September has already seen 46 additional cases, raising concerns among health officials and residents.
In response, PCMC has intensified its "Beat Dengue" campaign, enlisting volunteers from various sectors to help spread awareness. The initiative includes a weekly one-hour clean-up drive aimed at reducing mosquito breeding grounds in homes and surrounding areas.
During the Ganesh festival, local festival committees played a pivotal role in the campaign, displaying awareness banners and deploying 10 medical teams at immersion sites to further promote dengue prevention.
Additionally, LED screens have been set up at busy city intersections, broadcasting dengue prevention videos and audio clips. Hospitals have organized discussion panels and seminars to educate the public about the dangers of dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases like chikungunya and Zika.
To monitor and prevent mosquito breeding, the municipal corporation conducted container inspections in over 60,000 households across the city, targeting potential mosquito larvae sites. However, stagnant water in various parts of the city continues to pose a challenge.
Unsanitary conditions in some hotels and restaurants, as well as water accumulation at construction sites, tire shops, and puncture repair stores, have also been linked to the rise in mosquito breeding.
Dr. Laxman Gofne, Medical Officer, PCMC Health Department says, "Residents are urged to seek medical advice at the first sign of fever, dengue symptoms, or other mosquito-borne illnesses.
Pregnant women, in particular, should be vigilant for symptoms such as fever, joint pain, and pain behind the eyes and should consult a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment."