A rise in dengue cases is causing concern in Thripunithura village

The continued reporting of dengue cases in the Thripunithura municipal ward over the last one month has raised concerns among residents, health authorities and civic representatives.

A cluster of cases was reported from Ward 1, Attaprayil, and despite efforts by civic authorities to contain the spread, lack of public cooperation in removing mosquito breeding sites remains a major problem, civic officials said.

“We have found several establishments not taking steps to remove waterlogged areas in their premises which could become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. People are not cooperating despite repeated requests. Hence, we plan to enter these areas ourselves and carry out cleaning work from Monday,” ward councilor Praseetha Miju said.

Dr. Sona Rajan Manamel, a doctor at the Urban Primary Health Centre, Thripunithura, said 12 dengue cases were reported from Ward 1, mainly from Parayapparambil Lane and Pulse Nagar Road in Kozhivettumveli.

“Precautionary measures, including source reduction activities and vector studies, are being implemented to prevent spread. Continued case reports indicate the presence of a strong breeding source in the region. Problems identified include improper waste disposal, waterlogging and poor gardening practices,” said Dr. Manamel.

According to sources, the cases started being reported from the end of April. “Residents are not willing to keep their premises clean and this has contributed to the further reporting of cases. We believe that the actual number of cases could be higher. A similar situation occurred in November when a significant number of dengue cases were reported from the same area. The repeated occurrence of cases indicates the existence of mosquito breeding sites in the locality,” said the health official.

Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, convener of the Kerala State Research Cell of the IMA, emphasized the need for caution with the onset of monsoon. “The public must remain vigilant and aware of the seriousness of dengue fever. The disease can infect a person multiple times and can even be fatal in otherwise healthy individuals,” he said.

He added that eggs laid by dengue-carrying Aedes mosquitoes can survive the dry season and hatch once rainwater accumulates, leading to an increase in the mosquito population. “Infected mosquitoes contribute to the rapid spread of the disease. They usually only fly within a radius of about 400 meters. So if people keep their surroundings clean and prevent water stagnation, the risk of infection can be reduced,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kochi Corporation has also initiated preventive measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and prevent the spread of dengue fever. “Several dengue cases were recently reported from Vennala division. However, the spread could be prevented with early intervention. Resource reduction activities are being carried out in all the divisions,” said Kochi Mayor VK Minimol.

Published – 31 May 2026 22:06 IST