PANAJI
Goa reported 71 confirmed dengue cases in October, with health authorities linking most infections to improper water storage and mosquito breeding in stagnant water puddles.
According to data from the Health department, 848 people returned positive results in Dengue NS1 screening tests during the month. Of these, 71 cases were subsequently confirmed as dengue infections.
North Goa accounted for 35 cases from 358 people tested, while South Goa recorded 36 cases among 490 individuals screened.
Officials said water scarcity in some areas during October prompted residents to store water for longer periods. Many left their storing containers uncovered, creating ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
The department noted that dengue cases are generally higher during the monsoon and immediate post-monsoon period.
In September, 66 dengue cases were confirmed from 532 NS1-positive screenings.
A mix of rain and sunshine during that period contributed to increased mosquito activity, officials said.
To contain the spread, health authorities meanwhile have stepped up surveillance and preventive measures across the State.
Weekly drives are being conducted to identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sites in hotspots and vulnerable localities, an official said.
Cleanliness campaigns, public awareness programmes and inspections have also been intensified even as officials appealed for community level intervention to ensure homes and neighbourhoods are rid of mosquito breeding conditionsc.
Ensuring timely disposal of waste and regularly removung stagnant water from flower pots, refrigerators, water trays and other containers, is crucial for households, an official said, adding that water stored for more than seven days without properly covering it can be ideal for mosquito breeding.
