As the monsoon sets in, the number of dengue cases, like other seasonal illnesses, begins to rise. Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. To prevent a large-scale outbreak, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated several preventive measures. Since January 2025, Mumbai has reported 311 dengue cases.
Common symptoms of dengue include high fever, joint and bone pain, headaches, vomiting, nausea, skin rashes, and more. These symptoms typically appear 5 to 10 days after a mosquito bite. Dengue can be diagnosed through a blood test, and the platelet count in affected patients tends to drop rapidly.
In 2024, Mumbai recorded a total of 5,906 dengue cases. However, the current year has shown a decline, with only 311 cases reported between January and mid-May 2025. Dengue treatment is available at major BMC hospitals and all municipal health centers across the city.
Dengue Breeding Grounds in the City
From January 2024 to May 2025, a total of 2,17,981 dengue breeding sites were identified in Mumbai. Between January and May 2025 alone, 25,169 such sites were found. During the entire year of 2024, 1,92,812 breeding sites were detected.
How Does Dengue Spread?
Dengue is caused by the bite of an Aedes mosquito. The disease is viral in nature, and preventive steps focus on locating and eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Aedes mosquitoes breed in stagnant clean water. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that water does not accumulate in places like refrigerators, air conditioners, flower pots, buckets, or any open containers at home.
“Dengue spreads through mosquito bites, so it is crucial to prevent mosquito breeding and protect oneself from bites. If infected, seek timely medical treatment and follow medical advice without fear,” said Dr. Madhukar Gaikwad, Head of Medicine, JJ Hospital.
Preventive Measures
Residents are advised to install mosquito screens on windows, dispose of breeding mosquitoes, and use mosquito nets sprayed with repellent. Taking preventive measures to avoid mosquito breeding and bites is critical. In case of symptoms, immediate medical attention should be sought without panic and under proper guidance.
