Odisha reports 175 dengue cases; highest 93 patients from Khordha and Bhubaneswar

With the onset of monsoon, dengue has started spreading its tentacles in different parts of Odisha. So far, 175 dengue positive cases have been reported and Khordha district including Bhubaneswar has reported highest 93 cases of dengue.

Public Health Director, Niranjan Mishra on Saturday informed that there is usually a spike in vector-borne diseases from the month of July. However, the state has increased the dengue tests and so far 10,781 tests have been conducted and the overall test positivity rate is low.

“Last year during the same period, 5400 tests were conducted and now the tests have crossed over 10,000. A total of 175 dengue positive cases have been reported from different parts of the state so far,” said Mishra.

According to Mishra, the Aedes aegypti mosquito which causes dengue breeds in clean water with hard surfaces. He urges people to empty water from tyres, coconut shells, pots, coolers and other items near their surroundings.

"A standard operating procedure (SOP) has been issued for all districts as a precautionary measure. Clear instructions have been issued to hospitals and medical colleges to keep beds, medicine and platelets stock ready for dealing with any situation," Mishra added.