Due to the never-ending monsoon rains, Pune has seen a rise in vector-borne diseases including dengue, Zika virus, chikungunya and even malaria. According to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) data, three cases of malaria have been reported in the city till October 3. However, private hospitals have reported more than a dozen cases in August and September.

Malaria cases have increased in the city, with most infections caused by Plasmodium vivax, with some instances of Plasmodium falciparum. Infectious disease experts have reported five cases of Plasmodium vivax and three cases of Plasmodium falciparum, all experiencing mild symptoms and recovering. However, experts say the number of cases this year is unusually high compared to previous years.

Many affected patients had recently traveled to malaria-endemic areas, underscoring the importance of vigilant surveillance and control measures. Malaria symptoms can range from mild to severe, with common symptoms including fever, chills, headache, fatigue, confusion, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

Health officials reassure the public that prevention efforts have helped keep the situation under control. About 20 per cent of fever patients are being tested for malaria as part of the municipal surveillance programme. Doctors emphasize the need to complete the entire 14-day medication course to prevent recurrence.

As cases of vector-borne diseases are on the rise, officials have urged citizens to take necessary precautions and seek medical help if symptoms persist. For more information on malaria prevention and treatment, citizens should consult reliable health care sources or refer to reliable online health resources.

Tips to keep yourself safe from mosquito borne diseases

It is essential to take preventive measures to protect yourself from malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. Here are some top tips to stay safe:

1. Use mosquito repellents: Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Products containing DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil are highly effective.

2. Wear protective clothing: Cover your body with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks, especially in mosquito-prone areas. Choose light-colored clothes, as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors.

3. Install mosquito net: If you are in a high-risk area or sleeping outside, use mosquito nets treated with insecticides for added protection. This can be especially useful at night when mosquitoes are more likely to bite.

4. Remove stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so remove sources such as buckets, flowerpots and birdbaths. Make sure that drains are cleaned regularly to prevent the breeding of mosquito larvae.

5. Install Window Screen: Make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

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