With nearly 2,500 cases till date, dengue stings Tamil Nadu

In all, the number of dengue cases reported till date this year has crossed 2,500, with three fatalities so far.

According to officials from the Directorate of Public Health, at least 30 new dengue cases are being diagnosed every day in Tamil Nadu. The fever clinics that were set up at government hospitals across the State are receiving a large number of fever cases. Of the 100-150 fever cases that reach district headquarter hospitals, around 15-20 are brought in a critical condition and/or with low platelet counts.

Similarly, taluk and other hospitals are also receiving about 100 patients with fever daily, of which 10-15 are suspected to be dengue cases.

“When a patient comes after five days of fever and has low platelet counts, it indicates chances of dengue. Due to seasonal changes, even viral fever cases are coming in large numbers. The medical staff and laboratory services are available round-the-clock,” said R Guna, a medical staff at Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital fever clinic.

The Institute of Child Health is receiving around 200 fever cases every day, and has 30 cases that were tested for dengue. Hospital authorities said the condition of the children brought in critical stage were now improving.

“The fever cases are increasing while the dengue situation is in control. The preventive measures, including domestic breeding checks, are in place. All the cases are being stabilised,” said Dr K Kolandaisamy, director of Public Health.