Nagaland Reports Highest Dengue Cases in Two Decades; Government Assures Control

KOHIMA: Nagaland has witnessed a concerning surge in dengue cases, with 2,909 confirmed infections reported since June this year, marking the highest number in nearly two decades. Despite the alarming figures, the health department has assured the public that the situation is under control and there is no need for panic.

Addressing a press conference in Kohima, E Motsuthung Patton, Director of National Health Mission in Nagaland, revealed that the state has seen a substantial increase in dengue cases over the years. Out of the 8,107 samples tested since June, 2,909 have tested positive, with Dimapur being the district with the highest number of cases, reporting 1,398 infections.

Patton emphasized that the health department is actively monitoring the situation, and control measures are in place. He reassured the public that there is no need to panic.

Comparatively, the highest number of dengue cases registered in the state during a given period was 374 in 2018. However, the current surge in cases calls for heightened awareness and preventative efforts.

Regrettably, one dengue patient with comorbidity has succumbed to the disease in the state, according to another health official.

The health department has been vigorously engaged in awareness campaigns, conducting workshops and house-to-house campaigns to educate the public and prevent the further spread of dengue. The state's focus remains on controlling the outbreak and ensuring the well-being of its residents in the face of this health challenge.

Similarly, Manipur again faces a dengue outbreak with 1,338 cases and five suspected dengue related deaths officially registered so far this year, officials said on Saturday quoting the status report released by the state Health Directorate. Against 1,338 cases this year, there were only 203 cases of dengue reported in 2021 while in 2022, it increased to 503 cases. State Malaria Officer of the National Vector-Borne Disease Control Programme, Dr S. Priyokumar said that Imphal West district was classified as the worst-hit district with 898 cases, including three suspected deaths and in Tamenglong along with the two newly-formed districts of Pherzawl and Jiribam yet to report any dengue case so far.

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