Health experts call for eliminating mosquito breeding sites
Srinagar, Oct 13: Jammu and Kashmir has reported around 1,200 dengue cases so far this year, marking a considerable decline compared to the previous few years, even as health experts have urged people to remain vigilant against the mosquito-borne disease and take preventive measures.
Health experts cautioned that despite the comparatively lower number of cases, dengue can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications if warning signs are ignored or medical attention is delayed.
According to health data, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), J&K reported around 3,000 dengue cases in 2025, 7,000 in 2024, 6,403 in 2023 and 8,269 in 2022—the highest number recorded in the Union Territory. The 2022 outbreak also claimed 18 lives. In comparison, cases were almost negligible more than a decade ago, with only two cases in 2009 and none in 2010.
Doctors at Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu have advised people not to become complacent because of the decline, stressing that timely diagnosis, adequate hydration, medical supervision and mosquito-control measures remain essential.
Health experts said dengue is transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, particularly Aedes aegypti. Symptoms generally develop four to ten days after an infected bite and may last three to seven days.
“The period when the fever starts settling can be particularly critical for some patients. People should not assume that recovery has begun simply because the temperature has come down. Any warning signs during this phase require immediate medical evaluation,” experts said.
They explained that dengue can affect platelet counts and blood vessels, increasing the risk of bleeding, fluid leakage and, in severe cases, damage to vital organs. Doctors also warned that a subsequent infection involving a different strain can increase the risk of severe disease.
Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and extreme weakness.
Doctors cautioned against ignoring severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stools, unusual tiredness, restlessness or irritability.
The advisory notes that nearly one in every 20 dengue patients may develop severe dengue. “People experiencing warning signs should not delay visiting a healthcare facility. Early medical assessment and appropriate supportive treatment can help prevent complications,” doctors said.
They also cautioned against self-medication, noting the absence of a specific antiviral treatment makes prevention, early diagnosis and proper clinical management particularly important.
Experts stressed that eliminating mosquito breeding sites is among the most effective ways to reduce transmission, as Aedes mosquitoes can breed in small quantities of stagnant water collected in flower pots, buckets, discarded tyres, coolers, containers and even bottle caps.
“People must take preventive measures before mosquito breeding increases. Removing stagnant water, keeping water-storage containers covered and maintaining clean surroundings are essential steps,” doctors said.
Residents have been advised to regularly inspect their homes and neighbourhoods, empty and clean water containers, use mosquito repellents and wear full-sleeved clothing. Doctors also recommended installing screens on doors and windows and using mosquito nets while sleeping, including during daytime rest, as dengue-carrying mosquitoes are commonly active during daylight hours.
Meanwhile, GMC Jammu has said that arrangements have been made to manage dengue patients, including the availability of platelet stocks and the necessary hospital infrastructure.
Health experts reiterated that the decline in reported infections offers an opportunity to strengthen preventive efforts before cases rise again.
“Community participation is crucial in controlling mosquito-borne diseases. Every household must ensure that water does not stagnate in and around its premises. Sustained preventive efforts, rather than action only after cases rise, are necessary to protect public health,” doctors said. (KNO)
