Rising dengue cases cause concern in Thripunithura municipality

The continued reporting of dengue cases in a ward of the Thripunithura municipality over the past month has raised concern among residents, health authorities and civic representatives.

A cluster of cases has been reported from Ward 1, Attaprayil, and despite efforts by civic authorities to contain the spread, the lack of public cooperation in eliminating mosquito breeding sites remains a major concern, civic representatives said.

“We have identified a few establishments that are not taking steps to remove waterlogged areas within their premises, which could become mosquito breeding sites. People are not cooperating despite repeated requests. Therefore, we are planning to enter these areas ourselves and undertake cleaning activities from Monday,” said ward councillor Praseetha Miju.

Dr. Sona Rajan Manamel, medical officer at the Urban Primary Health Centre, Thripunithura, said 12 dengue cases had been reported from Ward 1, particularly from Parayapparambil Lane and Pulse Nagar Road in Kozhivettumveli.

“Preventive measures, including source reduction activities and vector studies, are being carried out to contain the spread. The continued reporting of cases indicates the presence of a strong breeding source in the region. Improper waste disposal, waterlogging and poor gardening practices are among the issues identified,” said Dr. Manamel.

According to sources, cases began to be reported from the end of April. “Residents are unwilling to keep their premises clean, and this has contributed to the continued reporting of cases. We believe the actual number of cases could be higher. A similar situation had arisen in November, too, when a considerable number of dengue cases were reported from the same area. The recurrence of cases points to the existence of mosquito breeding sites in the locality,” said a health worker.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, convener of the Research Cell of the Kerala State IMA, stressed the need for caution with the onset of the monsoon. “The public must remain cautious and aware of the seriousness of dengue. The disease can infect a person multiple times and can even prove fatal in otherwise healthy individuals,” he said.

He added that eggs laid by dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes can survive dry periods and hatch once rainwater accumulates, leading to a rise in mosquito population. “Infected mosquitoes contribute to the rapid spread of the disease. They generally fly only within a radius of around 400 metres. Therefore, if people keep their surroundings clean and prevent water stagnation, the risk of contracting the disease can be reduced,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Kochi Corporation has also initiated precautionary measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and prevent the spread of dengue. “A few dengue cases were recently reported from the Vennala division. However, the spread could be contained through timely intervention. Source reduction activities are being carried out in all wards,” said Kochi Mayor V.K. Minimol.