JOIN USDengue strain from South strikes city
A species of Aedes mosquito called ‘Aedes Albopictus’, commonly found in south India, has been detected in Delhi. Further investigations may reveal its role in spreading dengue in the city.
“We have found Albopictus in Delhi. It is common in south India. We also find it occasionally in the Capital,” said Dr N K Yadav, medical health officer, South Delhi Municipal Corporation.
“The National Centre for Disease Control has found its presence here currently,” added Dr Yadav.
A government hospital doctor said this species of the Aedes is mostly found in green belts, unlike the Aedes Aegypti, which is more common in a climate like Delhi’s. In a place like the Capital, Albopictus can breed in gardens, especially flowerpots. Once bred properly, it can spread further and transmit dengue.
New dengue cases
On Tuesday, 38 new cases of dengue were reported, with a civic agency confirming
one more dengue related death.
Saijal, an 11-year-old girl from Nangloi, who was admitted to Bhagwan Mahavir Hospital on October 29, died on October 31 due to dengue, said an MCD statement.
Reports to come
Two other reports of deaths from hospitals are yet to be confirmed by the MCD.
A 29-year-old pregnant woman in Lok Nayak Hospital and a 40-year-old woman in Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, reportedly succumbed.
“Investigations for these two are pending. We still have to confirm whether these were dengue related deaths,” said Dr Yadav.
The total number of dengue cases in Delhi stands at 1,249, out of which 1,238 originated in Delhi, while 11 persons contracted the vector-borne disease from other states but it was detected here.
South Delhi Municipal Corporation has reported a total of 468 dengue cases, North Corporation 416 and East Corporation 309.