Pune: Intermittent July rains in the city have coincided with a sharp rise in dengue cases, prompting the PMC and local hospitals to warn of escalating transmission unless preventive measures are stepped up.According to Dr Rajesh Dighe, assistant medical officer at Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the city has seen a significant jump in infections. “In the first three weeks of July, we reported 540 suspected and 22 laboratory-confirmed cases. This is a steep rise from June, which saw 175 suspected and 12 confirmed cases,” he said. The highest number of cases has been reported in Warje-Karvenagar ward, followed by Nagar Road-Wadgaonsheri, Kothrud, and Aundh-Baner. “We have intensified measures in these areas to control the spread,” Dr Dighe added.Health officials linked the spike to the “stop-and-start” nature of rain, which creates transient puddles and leaves water containers unprotected—ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito. Clinicians cautioned that dengue infections can be complicated, leading to prolonged recovery periods, especially in vulnerable patients.Hospital OPDs are already feeling the pressure. Dr Mahendra Dadke, consultant, internal medicine, Jupiter Hospital, noted a 25–30% increase in consultations compared to last month. “While most patients recover with timely diagnosis and supportive treatment, approximately 15–20% require hospitalisation due to persistent high fever, low platelet counts, dehydration, or severe body aches,” Dr Dadke said.The paediatric population is also seeing an uptick. Dr Nakul Pathak, consultant, paediatric intensive care and emergency at Surya Mother & Child Super Specialty Hospital, emphasised the importance of professional medical advice. “Treatment is mainly symptomatic, with adequate hydration and paracetamol for fever forming the cornerstone of care. However, patients must avoid self-medication,” he warned, adding that early diagnosis remains the most effective way to reduce complications.Distinguishing dengue from other seasonal illnesses is another challenge. Dr Danish H. Memon, senior consultant and head of the department of medicine at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, noted that many patients are presenting with viral fevers that mimic dengue but test negative.“There is no significant chikungunya outbreak this year, but dengue treatment remains strictly supportive. Monitoring for warning signs like persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulties, or low blood pressure is essential,” Dr Memon said. He further clarified that antibiotics have no role in treating dengue, and there are currently no proven antiviral drugs for the disease.The PMC and medical experts have urged residents to take proactive steps to eliminate stagnant water, cover all storage containers, and use mosquito nets and repellents. Authorities have recommended immediate testing for anyone experiencing high fever, rashes, or severe joint pain.
