Sola Civil reports 412 dengue cases in 48 days; malaria and water-borne infections also rise while the monsoon has brought respite from the heat, it has also unleashed a surge in seasonal illnesses across the city.
Data from GMERS Medical College and Hospital, Sola, shows that between late June and mid-August, thousands of patients sought treatment for mosquito-borne and water-borne diseases—an alarming reflection of how erratic rains and high humidity are fuelling health risks.
According to the IMD, the city has received 27.52 inches of rainfall this season, 5.23 inches above normal, with humidity peaking at 95% in the morning and 78% in the evening—conditions ideal for the spread of infections.At Sola Civil, July alone saw 959 suspected dengue cases, 116 of which tested positive. Malaria was more widespread, with 1,966 suspected cases and 44 confirmed.
Water-borne diseases added to the burden: 124 acute diarrheal cases, 124 bacillary dysentery cases, 36 hepatitis A, and 42 typhoid cases.The trend intensified in August, with 1,402 suspected dengue cases (296 positive) and 1,711 malaria suspects (89 positive). Cases of diarrhoea (69), dysentery (68), hepatitis A (25), typhoid (25), and even swine flu (2 confirmed positives) were also reported.Doctors attribute the spike directly to the weather—frequent showers, sudden temperature drops, waterlogging, and persistent humidity creating perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes and pathogens.
“This year, cases started rising earlier and are spreading faster because of irregular rains,” a senior doctor at GMERS said.Public health officials have warned that the situation could worsen if rains continue into September. Citizens are advised to avoid stagnant water, ensure safe drinking water, maintain hygiene, and use mosquito protection to prevent a possible outbreak.