“When the heat rises and the city grows, the tiny mosquito wins and so do the rising dengue numbers.”

Every year, dengue fever continues to challenge public health systems across India, and Kolkata is no exception. Once thought to be a seasonal threat, dengue has now become a recurring yearly concern, returning with alarming frequency and affecting thousands. The reasons go beyond simple mosquito bites; they are deeply rooted in climate change and rapid urbanization.

Climate Change: A Growing Catalyst

The steady rise in global temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns has made conditions increasingly favorable for mosquitoes. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, the primary carrier of dengue, thrives in warm, humid environments and adapts quickly to changes in the ecosystem.

• Rising Temperatures: A warmer environment shortens the mosquito’s breeding cycle and increases its lifespan. The dengue virus also multiplies faster inside mosquitoes at higher temperatures.
• Irregular Rainfall and Water Accumulation: Changes in rainfall patterns lead to frequent water stagnation in containers, tanks, and open areas, which become ideal breeding spots.
• Extended Breeding Periods: With the climate remaining warm for longer periods, mosquitoes can breed and spread dengue almost throughout the year.
  

According to global studies, including reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue has expanded its reach across new regions and populations, driven largely by climatic shifts.

Urbanization: When Growth Outpaces Planning

As Kolkata continues to urbanize rapidly, the rise in dengue cases reflects how city growth and infrastructure challenges often go hand in hand. The urban environment provides mosquitoes with endless opportunities to breed and multiply.

• Construction Sites and Open Drains: Water often collects in unused containers, tanks, and construction debris, unnoticed breeding spots.
• High Population Density: Crowded living spaces increase the risk of human–mosquito contact, making it easier for the virus to spread from one person to another.
• Inadequate Waste Management: Plastic waste and discarded materials trap rainwater, creating micro-breeding areas across neighborhoods.
  

Unplanned development and limited drainage systems make urban areas especially vulnerable. When combined with changing climate patterns, these conditions create the perfect storm for dengue transmission year after year.

Why Dengue Keeps Returning Every Year

The persistence of dengue is not due to a single reason it is the result of overlapping biological, environmental, and social factors:

1. Multiple Virus Types: Dengue has four distinct serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4). Recovering from one type doesn’t provide immunity to others, increasing the risk of re-infection.
2. Human Movement and Travel: People moving between cities and countries can unknowingly spread the virus.
3. Inconsistent Mosquito Control: Temporary fogging or spraying helps for a short time, but sustainable vector control needs ongoing community participation.
4. Limited Awareness: Many people still overlook small water containers or flower pots at home, which are common breeding grounds.
   

Without consistent preventive action, dengue continues to resurface not just seasonally, but every single year.

Dengue Fever: Symptoms

Recognizing dengue symptoms early can make all the difference. Symptoms usually appear within 4 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite.

Common Symptoms:

• High fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
• Severe headache and pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain (“breakbone fever”)
• Nausea, vomiting, or skin rashes
• Mild bleeding from gums or nose
• Fatigue or weakness
  

Severe Dengue (Emergency Warning Signs):

• Intense abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
• Bleeding under the skin or from mucous membranes
• Difficulty breathing or restlessness
• Sudden drop in platelet count
  

If you notice these symptoms, especially signs of severe dengue, seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis

At Charnock Hospital, our diagnostic process focuses on early detection and accurate testing, which are vital for effective management.

Common Tests Include:

• NS1 Antigen Test: Detects the virus in the early phase of infection.
• IgM/IgG Antibody Tests: Determine the stage and type of infection.
• CBC (Complete Blood Count): Tracks platelet levels and other critical parameters.
  

Timely diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment and reduces the risk of complications.

Treatment

Currently, there is no specific antiviral medicine for dengue. Treatment is primarily supportive and aimed at relieving symptoms while preventing dehydration or complications.

At Charnock Hospital, patient care for dengue includes:

• Adequate Hydration: Ensuring proper fluid balance, either orally or through IV if needed.
• Paracetamol for Fever: Pain and fever are managed safely, while medications like aspirin or ibuprofen are avoided due to bleeding risks.
• Close Monitoring: Platelet count and vitals are regularly observed to detect any early signs of severe dengue.
• Specialized Medical Care: In serious cases, patients receive round-the-clock monitoring in a controlled hospital environment.
  

With prompt medical attention and proper care, full recovery from dengue is highly achievable.

Prevention

Since dengue is transmitted through mosquito bites, prevention starts by reducing breeding grounds and minimizing exposure.

Personal Measures:

• Use mosquito repellents and wear long-sleeved clothing.
• Keep windows and doors fitted with mesh screens.
• Sleep under mosquito nets if needed.
  

Environmental Measures:

• Remove stagnant water from containers, tanks, and flower pots.
• Keep drains clean and covered.
• Dispose of solid waste properly to prevent water accumulation.
  

Community Action:

• Participate in local awareness drives.
• Ensure construction sites and neighborhoods are kept clean and dry.
• Support municipal mosquito control programs for long-term prevention.

By staying vigilant all year round, we can break the cycle of dengue transmission.

A Shared Responsibility

Dengue is no longer an occasional health issue; it’s a recurring, preventable challenge that demands consistent action from individuals, communities, and authorities. With awareness, timely medical attention, and environmental responsibility, we can protect ourselves and our city.

Your Health, Our Priority – Charnock Hospital

At Charnock Hospital, a NABH-accredited multispecialty hospital in Kolkata, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for dengue and other infectious diseases. Our team of experienced physicians, nurses, and diagnostic experts ensures early detection, effective treatment, and continuous monitoring for every patient.If you or your loved ones experience symptoms of dengue, don’t delay. Visit Charnock Hospital for expert evaluation, advanced medical support, and compassionate care. Together, let’s stay aware, stay protected, and keep Kolkata healthier every year.

📍 Address: BMC195, Teghoria, VIP Road, Kolkata – 700157
📞 Call Now: 033 40 500 500, +91 9831639000