Hosps under strain as prolonged rains drive dengue rise in Capital

Several households and establishments have been penalised for mosquito breeding, while awareness stickers and notices have been issued. Yet, challenges persist

- ANAMTA FATIMA

NEW DELHI: With the monsoon stretching unusually long this year, Delhi is witnessing a worrying spike in dengue cases, keeping hospitals under sustained pressure and exposing civic shortcomings in vector control. Health experts warn that the city is in the midst of one of its most prolonged dengue seasons in recent years, as water logging and drainage failures create fertile grounds for mosquito breeding.

Dr. Haidar, posted in the medicine department of a city hospital, observed that unlike last year, dengue cases have not tapered off by August. "The extended rains this year have prolonged water accumulation, and as a result, patients are still arriving with serious conditions. In many cases, we are seeing platelet counts dropping to dangerously low levels, requiring ICU admissions and plasma transfusions," he said.