The number of Dengue cases in West Bengal has surpassed 20,000 this year, leading the state Health Department to issue directives to its personnel, urging them not to leave their assigned locations without prior notice to effectively manage any emergency situations. Over the past week alone, 4,744 new cases have been recorded, with 924 new confirmed cases reported on Friday and 635 on the preceding day. As of Friday, 828 Dengue patients were admitted to government hospitals, bringing the total number of cases to 20,033 as of September 28, according to an internal report from the department.
To monitor the public health situation during the Puja holidays, a control room has been established at the state headquarters, with similar arrangements in all district headquarters. Officials from various health services and administrative departments have been instructed not to leave their stations without prior permission to ensure preparedness for the surge in Dengue cases. The officials and supporting staff are required to be available round the clock and ensure that hospital services, including emergency services, are maintained, except on October 2, 3, and 9.
Director (Health Service) Dr. Siddhartha Neogi noted a 41% increase in Dengue cases, partly attributed to increased testing. Murshidabad and Howrah districts have shown a decrease in new cases. Despite efforts to control the outbreak, recent Dengue-related deaths have been reported in different areas of the state, including Kolkata, prompting heightened vigilance and preventive measures. Of the 25 Dengue fatalities in the state, 11 were reported in Kolkata alone.
