30 new dengue cases reported within a week

As many as 30 fresh cases of dengue were reported in Delhi last week, taking the total number of people affected by the vector-borne disease to 180. Also, the total number of cases of malaria and chikungunya, reported by July 22, was 230 and 195, respectively.

Doctors and authorities now fear that the number of cases will rise with coming monsoon. As per the MeT department, there will be continuous showers in the coming few weeks, leading to more cases of vector-borne diseases. While dengue cases are showing a significant increase in number, eight fresh cases of malaria and five cases of chikungunya have also been recorded this week.

Dr SP Byotra, Head of Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said: "Every day, we are getting at least two cases of dengue, making it over 15 cases per week. It is strongly suggested to keep the surroundings dry and free from mosquito breeding zones. We do not need another epidemic."

Apart from the vector-borne diseases, the Capital is also reeling under a spate of viral fevers. "Viral fever usually subsides on the third day of its onset, but this time we are witnessing patients with consistent fever for more than three days," said Dr Rajesh Bhudiraja, Internal Medicine, Asian Institute of Medical Science.

"The earliest recognisable symptoms of a viral infection are often fatigue and body ache. This may be followed by the onset of fever. In most cases, the fever is accompanied by sore throat, running nose, nasal stuffiness, and red eyes. Headache is also common, and vomiting and diarrhea might be present in some cases," he added.