Tamil Nadu has reported a significant uptick in dengue cases this year, recording 15,796 infections and eight fatalities, according to Health Minister Ma. Subramanian. While the Minister asserted that dengue is currently under control in the state, the figures indicate that this year’s caseload represents one of the highest levels in the past five years. In comparison, the state witnessed a surge of 27,378 cases and 13 deaths last year, while the figures stood at 6,039 cases and eight deaths in 2021, and 6,430 cases with eight fatalities in 2022. The National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control has released these statistics.
The increase in dengue cases is largely attributed to mosquito breeding in stagnant water that accumulates around homes, especially in discarded items like coconut shells following rain. To mitigate this issue, the departments of municipal administration and rural development are implementing various strategies to combat Aedes mosquito breeding. These efforts include source reduction initiatives at homes, fogging operations, and anti-larval spraying. Minister Subramanian highlighted these measures during a meeting with Municipal Administration Minister K.N. Nehru focused on preparations for the upcoming northeast monsoon.
In a push for transparency, Subramanian noted a key difference in the current administration’s approach to data reporting. While the previous regime only disclosed dengue numbers from government hospitals, the current government provides comprehensive statistics that include data from private hospitals as well. Despite the 15,796 reported cases, the Minister emphasized that the fatalities related to dengue are manageable. He pointed out that most individuals who succumbed to the illness had pre-existing conditions and did not seek medical attention promptly, which exacerbated their conditions.
“We are actively working to create awareness across all districts,” Subramanian stated. “Dengue is under control now.” In light of the approaching northeast monsoon, the state plans to establish nearly 10,000 medical camps to enhance public health support. “These camps will be set up in areas reporting more than three cases of fever or diarrhea,” he added, underlining the preventative measures being taken.
As the monsoon season approaches, public health officials are urging residents to eliminate stagnant water sources around their homes to reduce mosquito breeding. This proactive approach is key in managing the spread of dengue and ensuring the health and safety of the population.
With these comprehensive measures in place and ongoing awareness campaigns, Tamil Nadu is making strides to combat dengue effectively as it heads into the monsoon season. Monitoring and rapid response will be crucial in keeping the case numbers down, ensuring that future health challenges are managed with diligence and transparency.
Published – October 07, 2025 06:30 pm IST
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/tn-records-15796-dengue-cases-eight-deaths-in-2025/article70135313.ece
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Publish Date: 2025-10-07 18:30:00
