This story is from August 20, 2019

Vector-borne diseases on the rise in Ahmedabad

While the recent spell of rain brought relief to the city, it also brought mosquitos — which are breeding in standing water
Vector-borne diseases on the rise in Ahmedabad
Picture used for representational purpose only
AHMEDABAD: While the recent spell of rain brought relief to the city, it also brought mosquitos — which are breeding in standing water. According to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) figures, city hospitals have been recording an average of 35 cases of vector-borne disease every day, since August 1.
August 20 is World Mosquito Day, to mark the discovery connecting the mosquito to the transmission of malaria.
The day is observed to create awareness about vector-borne diseases.
A recent survey by the AMC revealed that the city has a mosquito density of three mosquitoes per room, which represents a 28% increase from 2018.
Dr Jyotindra Mehta, a physician from Paldi, said that compared to July, the month of August records more patients complaining of fever, body ache and other symptoms related to vector-borne diseases. Other city-based physicians also mentioned that they suggest further tests if a patient reports more than a day of fever and other symptoms as dengue is also recorded in high numbers in several areas of the city.
Physicians suggest simple measures to prevent mosquito-borne diseases. “Vector-borne diseases spike about a fortnight after a major spell of rain. Water remains standing at many places and the insects breed in such pools. Apart from using mosquito repellent in the day and at night, a household can remain vigilant about water collecting in and around the home and should consult a physician on witnessing the symptoms associated with malaria, dengue and chikungunya,” said Dr Mehul Shelat, a physician from Sabarmati. He added that citizens should avoid eating out and should drink enough water day to remain healthy during the monsoon months.
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