Vector-Borne Diseases: Rise in Vector-Borne Diseases in Maharashtra During Jan-May

Pune: The state has recorded a substantial rise in vector-borne diseases in the Jan-May period this year as compared to the same period last year, which experts primarily attributed to early and strong pre-monsoon rain .According to the data shared by the state health department, a total of 1,534 cases were recorded in the state between Jan and May this year as against 1,031 infections in the same period last year. Similarly, 1,755 dengue patients were recorded in Maharashtra in the first five months of this year as compared to 1,237 cases in the corresponding period last year (see box).Dr Radhakishan Pawar, joint director at the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme, said, “The vector-borne infections are endemic. Having said that, diseases are no more restricted to any specific region owing to migration of people and changing climate patterns as well as rainfall. The early pre-monsoon showers can surely be blamed for the spurt in infections this season. Besides, our data shows that there is no longer a clear-cut bifurcation in diseases when it comes to prevalence in the urban and rural areas.”Entomologists said a rise in vector-borne diseases was seen every 3-4 years.The data showed that most malaria cases were reported from the urban areas (56%) in Maharashtra in the first four months last year. This has reduced to 52% in the same period this year. In the case of dengue, cities accounted for 61% of the total cases in 2023 as against 40% caseload this year.Dr Amitav Banerjee, a city-based epidemiologist, said, “Although climate change is accelerating various diseases, migration is acting as transportation for the parasites causing various infections, which are primarily endemic in nature. With migration for education, work and better living conditions, parasites are no longer restricted to any specific region.”Dr Rajesh Karyakarte, head of microbiology department at the BJ Medical College, said, “Vector-borne infections can never be completely eradicated. Mosquito breeding cannot be stopped as it is not just an issue of public health care but also proper urban planning and management of resources. So, the only way to tackle these diseases is vaccines, besides proper and timely management of patients.”Experts said people should ensure proper waste disposal and water storage to avoid mosquito breeding on their premises.“Avoiding water stagnancy in around the housing premises, using mosquito repellents, as well as nets, and wearing light colour clothes with full sleeves are some of the measures that can help keep disease-causing mosquitoes at bay. Dark colour clothes tend to attract mosquitoes,” a health expert said.