PANAJI
At a time when the Covid pandemic is still a focus for attention in the State, dengue has also been spreading across the State.
As many as 266 dengue cases have been detected in the State in June and July, with Vasco turning into a hotspot for dengue, informed Dr Kalpana Mahatme, chief medical officer in charge of the National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) in Goa.
“Due to awareness and the Covid pandemic, many people with fever are opting for testing and more cases of dengue have been reported,” said Dr Mahatme, while attributing the increased testing as one of the reasons for higher dengue figures.
Dr Mahatme stated that 800 samples were tested in June and July.
“While 164 dengue cases were detected in June, 102 cases were recorded in July. Of the 102 cases reported in July, 37 cases were in North and 65 cases were in South.”
Statistical analysis of dengue cases in July revealed that Vasco is a hotspot for dengue, with 41 cases detected in Vasco and 24 cases in Cortalim. Verna area attached to the Vasco Health Centre has also seen hike in cases.
In North Goa, there were total 34 cases in Panaji and Mapusa, while there were 21 cases in Ponda area.
"As preventive measures, families of dengue patients have also been tested," said Dr Mahatme.
“People are sent for a Covid test and when they test negative, a dengue test is done. This has helped in detection of dengue,” said Dr Mahatme.
