Pune: PMC has reported the highest number of chikungunya cases among all civic bodies this season, according to the state health department data.Of the 1,096 chikungunya cases reported across the state between Jan 1 and Aug 21 this year, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) recorded 71 cases, followed by Mumbai (61), Akola (41), and Kolhapur (34). Among districts, Palghar reported the highest number with 264 cases, followed by Pune (138), Latur (56), and Dhule (55).Dr Rajesh Dighe, assistant health officer, PMC, said, “We have a robust diagnostic system at our sentinel centres, which could be one of the reasons for these higher numbers. Of the 71 reported cases, only 14 are confirmed according to central govt guidelines; the rest are suspected cases. We also have many patients arriving from neighbouring rural areas. Our records show that of the 71 patients, only 29 reside within PMC limits, 12 are from outside the city, and 32 provided incomplete addresses. Nevertheless, we have intensified action in chronic hotspots and are issuing notices to institutions found with mosquito breeding spots.”Dr Aparna Patil, district malaria officer, Pune Zilla Parishad, said, “We are focusing on diagnosing more cases because we do not want to leave any case behind. We are also focusing on preventive measures like releasing guppy fish into stagnant water, creating awareness, and imposing penalties on institutions found with breeding spots. Additionally, due to the high volume of migrant workers in Pune district, not all cases involve permanent Pune residents.”“Patients must monitor specific symptoms and seek immediate medical attention,” said Dr. Amit Tungenwar, consultant physician at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre. He said, “Chikungunya commonly causes prominent joint pain, often accompanied by fever and skin rashes. Dengue, on the other hand, is typically associated with high fever, severe headache, backache, pain behind the eyes, nausea, vomiting, and reduced appetite. In rare, severe cases, patients may develop bleeding from the gums, nose, or in the stool. Drowsiness, restlessness, or reduced urine output can indicate serious complications involving the brain or kidneys, requiring immediate medical intervention.”Children remain particularly vulnerable to vector-borne infections, according to Dr Nakul Pathak, consultant in paediatric intensive care and emergency at Surya Mother & Child Super Specialty Hospital. He said, “Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed a noticeable rise in both dengue and chikungunya cases due to the intermittent rains. While many patients recover with timely care, some require hospitalisation for persistent high fever, dehydration, low platelet counts, or other severe symptoms.”Dr Vineet Rao, consultant, internal medicine, Jupiter Hospital, said, “Treatment for both illnesses is mainly symptomatic, with adequate hydration and paracetamol for fever and pain forming the cornerstone of care. Early diagnosis, prompt medical attention, and the elimination of mosquito breeding sites remain the most effective measures to reduce complications. Patients should strictly avoid self-medication. The best way to stay protected is simple but consistent: avoid stagnant water around homes, use mosquito repellents and protective clothing, maintain hygiene, and seek medical advice early if a fever persists. Proper monitoring can make a huge difference in recovery.”`
