Delhi's Health Department Works With 3 Municipal Corporations To Tackle Dengue

The health department of Delhi has tied up with all three municipal corporations to deal with the increasing number of dengue cases. Three hospitals from each corporation-East, South and North - will offer round-the-clock diagnosis and treatment to the suspected dengue patients based on the new action plan. There are 34 government hospitals offering diagnosis and treatment facility for dengue patients. "We are preparing hospitals to deal with the cases of dengue during peak season. These hospitals will add to the existing health centers and will act as a helping hand. We are increasing number of staff and machinery required to provide facilities," said, Dr Charan Singh, additional director, public health and waterborne diseases control.

Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquito of genus Aedes. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash that is similar to measles.

A total of 12 confirmed cases of dengue have been reported from the city in July, almost double of the number reported in 2014, as per the weekly report provided by the municipal corporation. The number of cases reported till July 18 in 2014 was seven. The total numbers of dengue cases so far have reached to 29. In Delhi of the total 29 cases, the maximum number of them was reported from north Delhi, at 10, while east Delhi recorded the lowest number with six cases.

Private blood banks were asked to provide platelets for free and have dedicated beds for dengue patients by the Delhi government. The department is also planning to cap test rates at private labs.

Source-Medindia