Telangana on alert as chikungunya cases surge

Chikungunya cases are on the rise again in Telangana, triggering concern among health authorities as monsoon rains continue across the state. The mosquito-borne viral disease, known for causing fever and severe joint pain, has seen a sharp increase in recent years.

According to health department data, Telangana reported just 220 chikungunya cases in 2021. By 2024, the number had risen to 1,392 - about six times the 2021 figure. As of August this year, over 7,000 suspected cases have been recorded, placing Telangana among the worst-affected states in the country.

A similar trend has been reported in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, where cases rose from 753 in 2021 to more than 4,200 in 2024. Officials attribute the spike to changing weather patterns, prolonged monsoons, and poor sanitation conditions in urban and semi-urban areas.

Chikungunya is transmitted by the Aedes m osquito, which also spreads dengue. The infection typically begins with high fever followed by intense joint pain, rashes, and headaches. While it is rarely fatal, the illness can cause severe discomfort lasting several days or even weeks.

Health experts point to stagnant water as the main cause of the outbreak. Rainwater accumulated in potholes, blocked drains, or open containers provides ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes. “Even small amounts of standing water - in bottle caps or unused coolers - can hatch thousands of larvae,” an official from the state health department said.

In Hyderabad, the problem worsens after every spell of heavy rain as overflowing drains, damaged pipelines, and garbage accumulation turn several localities into mosquito hotspots. To contain the spread, the Health Department, GHMC, and local bodies have intensified anti-larval operations and fogging drives across urban and rural areas.

As part of preventive measures, authorities are promoting the “Dry Day” campaign every Friday, urging residents to remove stagnant water from their surroundings. The initiative is aimed at curbing the spread of not just chikungunya, but also dengue and malaria.

Officials, however, warn that the situation requires sustained efforts. “The mosquito problem returns every monsoon. Awareness and community participation are crucial to break this cycle,” an official added.

With rains expected to continue in the coming weeks, health authorities have appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and ensure their homes and surroundings are kept dry and clean.