Tamil Nadu: Chennai is witnessing a significant rise in dengue cases this year, prompting the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) to strengthen vector control and waste removal efforts across the city. From January to July 8, 2025, the city reported 522 dengue cases, compared to 381 during the same period in 2024.
Adyar is the worst-affected area, with 111 cases, followed by Shollinganallur reporting 63 cases. Adyar has consistently recorded the highest dengue numbers, with over 250 cases reported annually in 2023 and 2024.
To reduce mosquito breeding grounds, the GCC removed more than 23 tonnes of waste in June alone, including 2,690 kg of used tyres and 20,455 kg of water-holding containers such as broken pots and drums. Adyar accounted for the largest share of waste cleared, at 3,596 kg.
A GCC vector control officer explained that Aedes mosquitoes, which spread dengue, breed in clean stagnant water often found inside homes. “Water collected inside unused tyres, broken containers, sunshades, and even refrigerator trays can serve as breeding spots,” the officer said.
Dengue cases in Chennai usually peak between August and October, with September and October seeing the highest numbers. This pattern aligns with data from the World Health Organization’s 2020 Dengue Bulletin and Tamil Nadu’s Directorate of Public Health. Intermittent rains during the southwest monsoon encourage mosquito breeding, while heavier northeast monsoon rains tend to wash away larvae.
Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health, recalled major dengue outbreaks in Tamil Nadu in 2012 (13,204 cases) and 2017 (23,294 cases). He emphasized the need for swift action: “We have around 10 days to act before the next breeding cycle begins.”
Some residents have expressed concerns that infrastructure projects such as Metro Rail construction and stormwater drains may impede vector control efforts. However, officials maintain ongoing efforts. “We have 2,400 domestic breeding checkers inspecting over 500 homes each week year-round,” a senior GCC official said.
Fogging operations and penalties are enforced in dengue-affected areas, but authorities stress the importance of public cooperation. “Keeping one’s surroundings clean is the most effective preventive measure,” the official added.
Authorities urge residents to take precautions seriously in the coming months to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce dengue cases in the city.
(With inputs from IANS)