Mumbai Monsoon Alert: SoBo Tops Dengue Hotspots, Malaria Cases Increase

As monsoon rains continue to intensify in Mumbai, cases of dengue and malaria have risen across the city. According to a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) survey conducted in June, South Mumbai has emerged as the city's biggest hotspot for mosquito-borne diseases. In response, the civic body has stepped up mosquito control measures through a special citywide campaign.

This Ward Records Highest Number of Dengue Cases

According to BMC data, D Ward has reported the highest number of dengue cases, with 15 confirmed patients.

Areas under D Ward:

• Malabar Hill
• Walkeshwar
• Cumballa Hill
• Tardeo
• Grant Road
• Girgaon

Other wards with confirmed dengue cases include:

• C Ward: 9 cases
• E Ward: 8 cases
• B Ward: 3 cases

No confirmed dengue cases have been reported in A Ward, although three suspected cases have been registered.

This Ward Reports Highest Malaria Cases

The highest number of malaria cases has been recorded in E Ward, which includes Byculla, Mazgaon, Nagpada, Agripada, and Mumbai Central. The ward has reported 64 malaria cases.

Other affected wards are:

• D Ward: 22 cases
• C Ward: 19 cases
• A Ward: 17 cases
• B Ward: 9 cases

Mosquito Breeding Most Widespread in South Mumbai

The BMC's Pest Control Department found extensive mosquito breeding across South Mumbai during inspections.

Anopheles mosquito breeding (malaria vector)

• E Ward: 722 breeding sites
• D Ward: 251
• C Ward: 236
• A Ward: 176
• B Ward: 160

Aedes mosquito breeding (dengue vector)

• E Ward: 1,237 breeding sites
• A Ward: 1,031
• C Ward: 811
• D Ward: 405
• B Ward: 316

Interestingly, despite recording fewer Aedes mosquito breeding sites than some other wards, D Ward has reported the highest number of dengue cases. This suggests that factors beyond mosquito density, including timely surveillance, early detection, and preventive measures, play a crucial role in controlling the spread of the disease.

BMC Launches Special Anti-Mosquito Campaign

BMC Additional Municipal Commissioner (Health), Prajakta Verma, said that continuous rainfall has created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding. To curb the spread of vector-borne diseases, the civic body has intensified several preventive measures, including:

• Anti-larval treatment
• Fogging operations
• Elimination of mosquito breeding sites
• Inspections of construction sites, residential buildings, and commercial establishments
• Door-to-door surveys by special health teams

The campaign is being carried out across the city's vulnerable areas.

Health Officials Appeal for Public Cooperation

BMC Executive Health Officer Dr. Daksha Shah urged residents to ensure that water does not stagnate in or around their homes and requested full cooperation with municipal teams during inspections.

Meanwhile, doctors advised early medical attention. Dr. Madhukar Gaikwad explained that:

• Dengue is caused by the Aedes mosquito, which breeds in clean, stagnant water.
• Malaria is transmitted by the Anopheles mosquito.

He advised people to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as fever, body aches, chills, or fatigue during the monsoon season, rather than self-medicating.

Waterborne Diseases Also on the Rise

In June, E Ward also reported an increase in waterborne illnesses, with:

• 34 cases of gastroenteritis
• 9 cases of typhoid

However, the BMC stated that there has been no significant rise in hepatitis or leptospirosis cases.

Precautions Citizens Should Take

To reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases, the BMC has advised residents to:

• Prevent water from accumulating in homes, balconies, terraces, and surrounding areas.
• Clean water tanks, coolers, flower pots, and other water containers regularly.
• Wear full-sleeved clothing, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Use mosquito nets, repellents, or window screens for protection.
• Seek medical advice immediately if you develop a fever or other symptoms, and avoid self-medication.