World Mosquito Day: Deadly dengue surges worldwide

World Mosquito Day, observed annually on August 20, serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers posed by mosquito-borne diseases and the ongoing global efforts to combat them. As CNBC reports, this day commemorates the 1897 discovery by British doctor Sir Ronald Ross, who first identified the malaria parasite in the stomach of a female Anopheles mosquito, proving mosquitoes as carriers of malaria.

The World Mosquito Program has labeled 2024 as the "worst year for dengue cases on record," with over 11 million cases reported across 80 countries. The spread of dengue, the fastest-growing mosquito-borne disease, shows no signs of slowing, with more than 24,000 severe cases and over 6,500 deaths reported globally.

In India, dengue remains a significant public health concern, despite a reported decline in other vector-borne diseases like chikungunya, lymphatic filariasis, and leishmaniasis. According to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), India recorded 2.33 lakh dengue cases and 303 deaths in 2022. This number rose sharply in 2023, with 2.89 lakh cases and 485 deaths. Urban areas have been disproportionately affected, accounting for around 68% of the total cases in 2023.

India, grappling with mosquito-borne diseases for decades, is now shifting focus from traditional surveillance to innovative approaches in disease prevention and control. The NCVBDC administers the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (NVBDCP), which targets the elimination of malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and kala-azar by 2030.

Earlier this month, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra urged states and municipalities to stay vigilant against potential dengue outbreaks. He emphasized the need for cooperation among various stakeholders, including the Urban Development Ministry, states, and local governments, to effectively manage and prevent dengue cases.

This year, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra have reported the highest number of dengue cases, highlighting the continued need for proactive measures in mosquito control.

[Information sourced from CNBC]