Mumbai Sees Sharp Spike In Malaria And Chikungunya Cases Amid Monsoon, Says BMC

The monsoon season and the increasing downpour have led to a sudden rise in mosquito-borne illnesses in Mumbai. The city has now recorded a sharp surge in both malaria and chikungunya cases. BMC has now launched the ‘Zero Mosquito Breeding Campaign’ to tackle the situation. Here’s more on it.

Malaria Cases Surpass Last Year’s Tally In Mumbai 

Mumbai, a city that sees heavy rainfall every year, is now battling a spike in mosquito-borne diseases. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the latest data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) states that this year’s malaria cases have already crossed last year’s seven-month tally by mid-July itself. Mumbai has reported 3,490 malaria cases between January and 14 July, compared to the 2,852 cases in the last year. Doctors are linking this sharp rise to the early onset of monsoon in the city. 

The intermittent rainfall has created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. Not just malaria, the city has also seen a sharp rise in chikungunya cases, which have tripled to 179 from just 46 last year. To stop the numbers from rising further, BMC has launched the ‘Zero Mosquito Breeding Campaign’. Under this, directives have been issued to prevent mosquito breeding in public and private spaces. Offices and civic hospital premises have also been asked to promote the use of bed nets. 

Also Read: Tonic Water Used To Treat Malaria? 8 Facts About This Soft Drink

Doctors Link Rising Cases To Climate Change 

As per HT, doctors say rising humidity and climate change have contributed to the increase in vector-borne diseases. They also warn that chikungunya has no specific antiviral treatment and can cause long-term issues like joint and muscle pain, making the situation more worrying.

Dr Ashit Hegde, a consultant in internal medicine and intensive care, told HT that stagnant water near construction sites is also a major cause of the rising malaria cases. He said authorities need to address this as a priority to reduce the number of cases in the city. Many patients with malaria have also been admitted with low platelet counts and high-grade fever, which is a serious concern.

Also Read: Mumbai: Malaria-Causing Mosquito Larvae Found In Railway Stations; Causes Health Hazard Alert!

Not just Mumbai, many parts of the country are seeing heavy rainfall right now. It’s best to stay cautious and prevent mosquito bites by wearing full-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent, and keeping your surroundings clean. Make sure there is no stagnant water around your home as well. 

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