New Delhi (IANS) – Promoting cleanliness, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, and raising public awareness are essential steps in controlling the spread of dengue, Union Health Minister JP Nadda emphasized on National Dengue Day, observed on Friday.
To boost public awareness about dengue, the Ministry of Health declared May 16 as National Dengue Day in 2010. The theme for this year is “Check, Clean, Cover: Steps to Defeat Dengue.”
“This theme underlines the importance of regularly inspecting potential mosquito breeding sites, cleaning the surroundings, and covering water containers to prevent the spread of dengue,” Nadda stated in a post on social media platform X.
Calling dengue a “serious public health challenge,” he urged citizens to actively participate in efforts to raise awareness and educate others about prevention and early diagnosis.
“With the collective efforts of communities, healthcare workers, and local authorities, we can significantly curb the spread of dengue and safeguard public health,” he added.
According to the National Centre for Vector-Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, dengue cases in India have surged dramatically—from 28,066 in 2010 to over 2.89 lakh in 2023.
As of March 2025, more than 16,000 cases have already been reported, indicating a troubling trend early in the year. This continued rise underscores the urgent need to strengthen public health infrastructure and response systems.
“Let us pledge to maintain cleanliness and raise public awareness to protect our families and communities from dengue. Prevention is the only protection. A Clean India, a Healthy India – this is the foundation of a dengue-free India,” said Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel in a post on X.
Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav also advised citizens to maintain hygiene, avoid stagnant water, and wear long-sleeved clothing to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, which thrive in warm and humid environments. Changing climate patterns are creating more favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, leading to an expansion of dengue outbreaks even in traditionally unaffected regions such as Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.
A recent study published in The Lancet warned that climate-sensitive diseases like dengue are projected to increase significantly, especially in South Asia, unless urgent preventive action is taken.
Dr. Praveen Gupta, a neurologist at a Gurugram hospital, highlighted that the growing spread of dengue—intensified by climate change—poses serious neurological risks, including encephalitis, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
“With cases now occurring throughout the year, early diagnosis and public awareness are critical. Beyond vector control and vaccination, we must also focus on protecting brain health through coordinated public health action,” Gupta said.
The Ministry of Health also advised preventive steps such as using mosquito nets, installing mesh on windows and doors, and avoiding mosquito bites.
“If you notice symptoms of dengue, don’t ignore them—it can be life-threatening. Get a blood test and consult a doctor immediately. Rest and stay hydrated during fever. Free dengue testing is available at designated government hospitals,” the Ministry said on X.