City Health Alert: Dengue on the Rise
The city of Ludhiana has recorded 361 dengue cases so far this year, with 15 new infections reported in a single day and 35 active cases currently under monitoring.The Times of India Health officials have flagged 29 hotspots spanning both upscale neighborhoods—such as Gurdev Nagar, Model Town, Barewal—and densely populated areas like Habibganj, Issa Nagri, Prem Nagar and Ambedkar Nagar.The Times of India
Why the Surge?
The current spike is attributed to prolific mosquito breeding in both well-planned and congested sectors. Officials say stagnant water in domestic containers, poorly maintained overhead tanks and construction sites are key breeding grounds. In response, the health department is rolling out the “Har Shukarvaar – Dengue Te Vaar” campaign, urging households to carry out weekly inspections and eliminate mosquito habitat.The Times of India
What the Authorities Are Doing
- Free diagnosis and treatment services have been activated city-wide by the health department.The Times of India
- Targeted awareness drives are being held in the identified hotspot areas, with door-to-door campaigns to distribute repellent/larvicide kits.
- Local citizens are being urged to wear full-sleeve clothing, apply mosquito repellent, and ensure homes are covered/clean. Still, residents have voiced concerns that more robust and proactive action is necessary.The Times of India
What Residents Should Do Now
- Conduct weekly checks in and around homes: remove standing water in buckets, flower pots, old tyres, roof gutters.
- Ensure mosquito screens on windows and doors; use bed nets where needed.
- Use mosquito repellents especially during dawn and dusk.
- Wear light-coloured, full-sleeve clothing when feasible.
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms like high fever, headache, body aches, rash appear. Early detection is key.
- Cooperate with civic teams during spraying operations and larvicide drives in your locality.
Implications & Outlook
The fact that both upscale and dense neighbourhoods are affected suggests this is not a niche issue—it’s city-wide. If left unchecked, the case-load could rise further, putting pressure on healthcare services and increasing risk for vulnerable groups (children, elderly, immuno-compromised). Vigilance and community cooperation will be essential in turning the tide.
External Resources
- For updates and advisory by the local health department: The Tribune’s Ludhiana latest news (search for “dengue spot-lights”)tribuneindia.com+1
- For detailed outbreak numbers and advisory: Times of India: Dengue hot spots in Ludhiana The Times of India
Published on: November 02 2025
