It seems that dengue is assuming serious proportions in Odisha as 60 to 80 positive cases are being detected on an average daily. At present, the total dengue case tally has reached 2, 426 with Khorda district accounting for the highest 1,220 positive cases.
Odisha Public Health Director, Niranjan Mishra said as testing has increased there has been a rise in the detection of cases but, there is absolutely nothing to panic about.
“Dengue cases are rising. But the overall situation in Odisha is very much under control compared to other states. Our surveillance and dengue testing has been increased,” said Mishra.
Mishra said that despite rising dengue cases, there is no need to panic as the complication rate is less than 5 percent and the fatality rate is less than 1 percent.
“Most patients can get treated even at home. In Bhubaneswar, we have made provisions for dengue sample collection and treatment at four CHCs. If any patient develops complications, they will be shifted to the hospital. So far 38,500 tests have been done against 18700 tests during the same period last year," he added.
However, such statements have failed to pacify the opposition parties which have targeted the Odisha government over the dengue situation. BJP leaders alleged the Odisha government’s callous attitude and inefficiency for the steep rise in the dengue cases in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
"BMC and CMC’s local self-governance has been waylaid and the government failed to address the situation. Despite the alarming situation, the Odisha government is hiding the death numbers," alleged BJP.
State BJP spokesperson Dilip Mohanty alleged that “Over 20 dengue-positive patients have died in hospitals. Does the Odisha government have any information? The move of the state government to collect fines if a potential dengue breeding source or larvae is found in any household is totally shameful and unfortunate.”
BJP’s Bhubaneswar district president, Babu Singh said, “BMC Mayor and Commissioner do just the opposite of what they say in public like improving drainage and sanitation. People are now left to themselves and we urge them to take necessary steps as the state government has completely failed to address the situation.”
Responding to the allegations, BMC Mayor, Sulochana Das said, “Dengue situation is concerning for everybody. People need to be cautious and aware to keep their surroundings clean and ensure that there is no accumulation of water. Sanitation drive has been intensified with other measures."
Das said that whenever anyone develops a fever, they should get tested for dengue.