MUMBAI: The city is witnessing a sharp surge in vector-borne and water-borne diseases, with dengue and chikungunya cases rising by over 500% in July compared to the previous month, according to hospital data and municipal health records.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) attributes the spike to the early onset of monsoon in May, which created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes and led to the rise in infections.
Disease Surge: July vs June
- Malaria: 884 → 1,294 (↑ 46.38%)
- Dengue: 105 → 708 (↑ 574%)
- Chikungunya: 21 → 129 (↑ 514%)
- Leptospirosis: 36 → 143
- Hepatitis: 78 → 176
In comparison, during July last year, the city reported 797 cases of malaria, 535 of dengue, and only 25 cases of chikungunya, indicating a year-on-year spike, particularly in chikungunya.
Doctors Report Changing Trends
Dr. Anita Mathew, an internal medicine specialist at Fortis Hospital, noted that chikungunya, once rare in Mumbai, has now become a common diagnosis, including in patients with no travel history. “Our OPDs are flooded with dengue patients, though most can be managed at home with hydration and monitoring,” she added.
She also flagged an increase in leptospirosis cases at private hospitals, which was uncommon in previous years.
Dr. Anupama Sardana, a critical care expert at Holy Family Hospital, Bandra, said older patients are increasingly requiring ventilator support, particularly in dengue and malaria cases. “Malaria remains the most prevalent, but dengue cases have surged significantly, often presenting with rapid platelet drops,” she said.
A doctor from Nair Hospital confirmed a sharp uptick in hospital admissions for both malaria and dengue, though no deaths have been reported so far.
Dr. Gautam Bhansali, infectious disease specialist at Bombay Hospital, acknowledged the rise in infections but added that early testing and heightened public awareness have helped manage most cases through outpatient treatment.
Civic Measures and Public Caution
BMC officials are now intensifying awareness campaigns and fumigation drives, urging residents to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and seek early medical help in case of fever or weakness.
Experts recommend avoiding water stagnation, using mosquito repellents, and wearing full-sleeve clothing as preventive measures.
With weather conditions still favourable for mosquito breeding, health officials warn the city may see continued high case numbers through August, unless stricter public hygiene and municipal interventions are enforced.
