An increase in dengue cases has been observed in Ernakulam district as the monsoon intensifies across the State.

As of June 28, the district had reported 763 suspected and 295 confirmed dengue cases, compared to 304 suspected and 142 confirmed cases in May.

The Health department has intensified preventive measures in view of the rise in mosquito-borne diseases. “Source reduction activities are the only effective way to prevent mosquito breeding, and directions have been issued to step up such measures. With West Nile fever cases also being reported in the district, we have decided to focus on preventing the accumulation of dirty water as well. Cleaning drives and spraying operations have been launched as part of the preventive measures,” said District Medical Officer Dr. R. Shahirsha.

Dengue cases have been reported from Edappally, Eloor, Kaloor, Kalamassery, Vennala, Ezhikkara, Malayidamthuruthu, Mulamthuruthy, Pattimattom, Ponnurunni, Thammanam and Kalady, among other places in the district. Aluva municipality alone reported seven cases last week, including three from Ward 10 and two each from Wards 12 and 21.

Aluva municipal secretary Ansal Isaac said no new cases had been reported since then and that the local body had intensified source reduction measures, including fogging and spraying. Dr. Rajany Jose, Associate Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at Government Medical College, Ernakulam, said the increase in cases was expected.

“There has been a spike in the number of cases compared to last month. However, it is on expected lines as the arrival of the monsoon and intermittent rains lead to water stagnation, creating favourable conditions for mosquito breeding. The only way to prevent dengue is through source reduction activities,” Dr. Jose said.

Describing dengue as a preventable disease, Dr. Jose said effective control requires collective and sustained efforts by all departments, along with active public participation in eliminating stagnant water and ensuring proper waste management.