From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue.

With the click of a button and a whirr of a fan, a hatch opens and 150 lab-reared male mosquitoes are sent flying, off in search of a female companion with whom they can mate but not reproduce.

The dengue virus, which in rare cases can be fatal, is carried and spread to humans by infected mosquitoes.

But Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria.

Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added.

Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining.

Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections.

A new strain of the disease, combined with unseasonably wet weather and coronavirus lockdowns that left construction sites and other mosquito breeding grounds undisturbed, are all seen as factors behind the dengue outbreak.

That has put the onus on traditional deterrents like fogging, fining people for flouting anti-mosquito regulations like leaving plant pots full of stagnant water, and deploying novel techniques such as the Wolbachia project.

In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas.

For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said.

Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans.

When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch.

<figure>&nbsp;</figure>

The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore.

“You’ve got to flood the island with these mosquitoes, and people get annoyed,” said Paul Tambyah, senior consultant at Singapore’s National University Hospital.

“They’re not going to grab the mosquito and examine and see whether it’s a male or female. They’re going to swipe them away, and that kind of defeats the purpose,” he said.

From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue.

From the high balcony of a Singapore public housing block, an environment official steadies his mosquito launcher, the latest contraption authorities have devised to combat a record outbreak of the tropical disease dengue. With the click of a button and a whirr of a fan, a hatch opens and 150 lab-reared male mosquitoes are sent flying, off in search of a female companion with whom they can mate but not reproduce. The dengue virus, which in rare cases can be fatal, is carried and spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. But Singapore’s specially bred mosquitoes carry a bacteria that prevents eggs from hatching, and “compete with the wild type,” leading to “a gradual reduction of the mosquito population,” said Ng Lee Ching, the official heading the Wolbachia project, named after the bacteria. Some areas with high mosquito populations have seen up to 90% declines using this technique, she added. Singapore - a tiny Southeast Asian island nation of 5.7 million people - has recorded more than 26,000 dengue cases this year, surpassing the previous annual record of around 22,000 in 2013 with four months still remaining. Twenty people have died of the disease this year, which can cause extreme fever that leads to internal bleeding and shock. By comparison, only 27 people have died of the coronavirus in the city-state out of more than 56,000 infections. A new strain of the disease, combined with unseasonably wet weather and coronavirus lockdowns that left construction sites and other mosquito breeding grounds undisturbed, are all seen as factors behind the dengue outbreak. That has put the onus on traditional deterrents like fogging, fining people for flouting anti-mosquito regulations like leaving plant pots full of stagnant water, and deploying novel techniques such as the Wolbachia project. In government laboratories, scientists breed the bacteria-carrying mosquitoes in rows of pallets - separating the male pupae for release in high-risk dengue areas. For every person living in those areas, up to six Wolbachia mosquitoes are released each week, the environment agency said. Wolbachia mosquitoes can’t transmit diseases such as dengue, and only female mosquitoes bite humans. When male Wolbachia mosquitoes mate with females that don’t carry the bacteria, none of the resultant eggs will hatch. The strategy has been successful in Australia but some experts say it might have its limits in dense urban areas such as Singapore. “You’ve got to flood the island with these mosquitoes, and people get annoyed,” said Paul Tambyah, senior consultant at Singapore’s National University Hospital. “They’re not going to grab the mosquito and examine and see whether it’s a male or female. They’re going to swipe them away, and that kind of defeats the purpose,” he said.

Singapore battles record dengue outbreak with more mosquitoes

A plan to release millions of genetically modified mosquitoes into US' Florida Keys in 2021 and 2022 has received final approval from local authorities.

This is being done under a pilot project -- designed to test if a genetically modified mosquito is a viable alternative to spraying insecticides to control the Aedes aegypti (to be precise, to test if these genetically modified mosquitoes can kill the disease causing ones.)

The Aedes aegypti is a species of mosquito that carries several deadly diseases, such as Zika, dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever.

The mosquito, named OX5034, has been altered to produce female offspring that die in the larval stage, well before hatching and growing large enough to bite and spread disease. Only the female mosquito bites for blood, which she needs to mature her eggs. Males feed only on nectar, and are thus not a carrier for disease.

The mosquito is also approved to be released into Harris County, Texas, beginning in 2021, according to Oxitec, the US-owned, British-based company that developed the genetically modified organism (GMO).

The Environmental Protection Agency granted Oxitec's request after years of investigating the impact of the genetically altered mosquito on human and environmental health.

In June the state of Florida issued an Experimental Use Permit after seven state agencies unanimously approved the project. But it's taken over a decade to obtain that approval.

Even though Aedes aegypti is only 1% of its mosquito population, Florida Keys Mosquito Control typically budgets more than $1 million a year, a full tenth of its total funding, to fighting it.

OX513A had been field tested in the Cayman Islands, Panama and Brazil, with Oxitec reporting a large success rate with each release.

The new male mosquito, OX5034, is programmed to kill only female mosquitoes, with males surviving for multiple generations and passing along the modified genes to subsequent male offspring.

The EPA permit requires Oxitec to notify state officials 72 hours before releasing the mosquitoes and conduct ongoing tests for at least 10 weeks to ensure none of the female mosquitoes reach adulthood.

However, environmental groups worry that the spread of the genetically modified male genes into the wild population could potentially harm threatened and endangered species of birds, insects and mammals that feed on the mosquitoes.

A plan to release millions of genetically modified mosquitoes into US' Florida Keys in 2021 and 2022 has received final approval from local authorities. This is being done under a pilot project -- designed to test if a genetically modified mosquito is a viable alternative to spraying insecticides to control the Aedes aegypti (to be precise, to test if these genetically modified mosquitoes can kill the disease causing ones.

A plan to release millions of genetically modified mosquitoes into US' Florida Keys in 2021 and 2022 has received final approval from local authorities. This is being done under a pilot project -- designed to test if a genetically modified mosquito is a viable alternative to spraying insecticides to control the Aedes aegypti (to be precise, to test if these genetically modified mosquitoes can kill the disease causing ones.) The Aedes aegypti is a species of mosquito that carries several deadly diseases, such as Zika, dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever. The mosquito, named OX5034, has been altered to produce female offspring that die in the larval stage, well before hatching and growing large enough to bite and spread disease. Only the female mosquito bites for blood, which she needs to mature her eggs. Males feed only on nectar, and are thus not a carrier for disease. The mosquito is also approved to be released into Harris County, Texas, beginning in 2021, according to Oxitec, the US-owned, British-based company that developed the genetically modified organism (GMO). The Environmental Protection Agency granted Oxitec's request after years of investigating the impact of the genetically altered mosquito on human and environmental health. In June the state of Florida issued an Experimental Use Permit after seven state agencies unanimously approved the project. But it's taken over a decade to obtain that approval. Even though Aedes aegypti is only 1% of its mosquito population, Florida Keys Mosquito Control typically budgets more than $1 million a year, a full tenth of its total funding, to fighting it. OX513A had been field tested in the Cayman Islands, Panama and Brazil, with Oxitec reporting a large success rate with each release. The new male mosquito, OX5034, is programmed to kill only female mosquitoes, with males surviving for multiple generations and passing along the modified genes to subsequent male offspring. The EPA permit requires Oxitec to notify state officials 72 hours before releasing the mosquitoes and conduct ongoing tests for at least 10 weeks to ensure none of the female mosquitoes reach adulthood. However, environmental groups worry that the spread of the genetically modified male genes into the wild population could potentially harm threatened and endangered species of birds, insects and mammals that feed on the mosquitoes.

Millions of genetically engineered mosquitoes approved for release in US for pilot project

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced.

More than 14,000 dengue cases have been reported in the city since the start of the year, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA).

Experts from the agency are predicting that the total number of dengue cases might exceed the previous highest number of cases, which was 22,170 in 2013.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-who-returned-from-india-tests-covid-19-positive-in-singapore-309894">Also read|&nbsp;Woman who returned from India tests COVID-19 positive in Singapore</a>

Till now, 16 people have lost their lives to dengue in the present year. This is twice the number of deaths that took place in 2013, which was the worst dengue outbreak in the history of Singapore.

For the past three weeks, dengue cases have been exceeding 1,000, and a total of 1,468 cases were reported in the past one week.

The Singapore government has now increased the checks&nbsp;to remove potential mosquito breeding habitats at public areas and housing estates, and has also started inspecting various premises for any possible outbreak and sanitisation. Till now, 6,900 premises have undergone inspection and vector control.

One major reason for the dramatic increase in the&nbsp; number of cases may also be the intense lockdown that can cause more residential&nbsp;mosquito breeding.

The Singapore government is&nbsp;&nbsp;urging people to keep their surroundings clean and cooperate with the experts in dengue testing, amid the pandemic.

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced.

Singapore was one of the countries which was hit by the re-emerging cases of coronavirus in the last month. As the country struggled to bring the coronavirus cases under control, it has been hit by an outbreak of dengue -- and it is the worst outbreak the country has ever faced. More than 14,000 dengue cases have been reported in the city since the start of the year, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). Experts from the agency are predicting that the total number of dengue cases might exceed the previous highest number of cases, which was 22,170 in 2013. Also read| Woman who returned from India tests COVID-19 positive in Singapore Till now, 16 people have lost their lives to dengue in the present year. This is twice the number of deaths that took place in 2013, which was the worst dengue outbreak in the history of Singapore. For the past three weeks, dengue cases have been exceeding 1,000, and a total of 1,468 cases were reported in the past one week. The Singapore government has now increased the checks to remove potential mosquito breeding habitats at public areas and housing estates, and has also started inspecting various premises for any possible outbreak and sanitisation. Till now, 6,900 premises have undergone inspection and vector control. One major reason for the dramatic increase in the number of cases may also be the intense lockdown that can cause more residential mosquito breeding. The Singapore government is urging people to keep their surroundings clean and cooperate with the experts in dengue testing, amid the pandemic.

Singapore faces the worst dengue outbreak in its history; records more than 1,400 cases in a week

At a time when countries across the globe are pushing their efforts to find a vaccine to treat novel coronavirus, an institute in US is experimenting with the saliva of mosquitoes to build a vaccine that can help in protecting against all the pathogens that insects transmit into humans.&nbsp;

The study led by Jessica Manning and conducted by US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases focuses on saliva protein of mosquitoes to build a universal vaccine that can resist malaria, dengue, chikungunya, Zika, West Nile, Mayaro viruses, yellow fever, and any other related disease that may emerge.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-global-vaccine-mission-secures-74-billion-india-joins-uks-mission-303478">COVID 19: Global vaccine mission secures $7.4 billion; India joins UK's mission</a>

The Lancet, on Thursday, published the results of the first-ever clinical trial of a mosquito spit study in humans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-for-covid-19-vaccine-china-wants-to-act-god-in-a-world-deep-in-pain-304359">Race for Covid-19 vaccine: China wants to act god in a world deep in pain</a>

It said that the vaccine was safe and activated antibody and cellular responses.

In the phase 1 trial of the vaccine, 49 health people were chosen and were randomly assigned to receive one of two versions of the vaccine or a placebo.&nbsp;

After a few weeks, mosquitoes were placed on the arms of the participants where their immune response to the mosquito saliva protein was seen.&nbsp;

However, pathogens were not involved in this trial.&nbsp;

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Malaria alone is responsible for deaths of over 400,000 people each year.&nbsp;

Underdeveloped and developing nations generally contribute to deaths from&nbsp;this disease.

The coronavirus outbreak has brought focus on the research and vaccines of infectious disease, and one of the main concerns are pathogens spread by mosquitoes.&nbsp;

At a time when countries across the globe are pushing their efforts to find a vaccine to treat novel coronavirus, an institute in US is experimenting with the saliva of mosquitoes to build a vaccine that can help in protecting against all the pathogens that insects transmit into humans.

At a time when countries across the globe are pushing their efforts to find a vaccine to treat novel coronavirus, an institute in US is experimenting with the saliva of mosquitoes to build a vaccine that can help in protecting against all the pathogens that insects transmit into humans. The study led by Jessica Manning and conducted by US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases focuses on saliva protein of mosquitoes to build a universal vaccine that can resist malaria, dengue, chikungunya, Zika, West Nile, Mayaro viruses, yellow fever, and any other related disease that may emerge. Also read | COVID 19: Global vaccine mission secures $7.4 billion; India joins UK's mission The Lancet, on Thursday, published the results of the first-ever clinical trial of a mosquito spit study in humans. Also read | Race for Covid-19 vaccine: China wants to act god in a world deep in pain It said that the vaccine was safe and activated antibody and cellular responses. In the phase 1 trial of the vaccine, 49 health people were chosen and were randomly assigned to receive one of two versions of the vaccine or a placebo. After a few weeks, mosquitoes were placed on the arms of the participants where their immune response to the mosquito saliva protein was seen. However, pathogens were not involved in this trial. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Malaria alone is responsible for deaths of over 400,000 people each year. Underdeveloped and developing nations generally contribute to deaths from this disease. The coronavirus outbreak has brought focus on the research and vaccines of infectious disease, and one of the main concerns are pathogens spread by mosquitoes.

US institute develops vaccine from mosquito spit that could prevent next epidemic

The Latin American region has been hit by a severe dengue outbreak, with Peru reporting the latest victims of this pestilence. Dengue has claimed 12 lives in Peru and around 5,400 cases have been reported across the nation.

The Latin American region has been hit by a severe dengue outbreak, with Peru reporting the latest victims of this pestilence. Dengue has claimed 12 lives in Peru and around 5,400 cases have been reported across the nation. Peruvian authorities have declared a health emergency in regions witnessing the worst of the outbreak. Most cases are originating in the Eastern jungle regions which border Bolivia and Brazil. Neighbouring Peru has led the outbreak to Paraguay, which was also affected by this mosquito-borne disease as deaths from the dengue fever have been on the rise in the nation of Paraguay. Also See: What is dengue, and why is it so widespread this year? Health officials have reported 85,000 cases of Dengue fever in the nation, a number which is on the rise much like Peru. With a total of 16 deaths from the disease in Paraguay, this seems to be South America's worst outbreak of the disease in a decade and has had adverse effects on its healthcare system. The Paraguayan Senate has called for a 90-day Health Emergency following the outbreak. The President of Paraguay, Mario Abdo Benitez has also contracted the disease. Bolivia has reported around 9,500 suspected cases nationwide, with the Department of Santa Cruz being the most affected one which has 1,200 cases. The world's fastest-spreading mosquito-borne disease is dengue, it causes flu-like symptoms and can cause internal bleeding in extreme cases.No specific treatment or vaccine is available yet, and infections around the world have increased dramatically in recent decades with many countries seeing a surge in cases this year.

Dengue outbreak in Latin America as 12 die in Peru

A severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-dengue-outbreak-49000-cases-registered-262821">dengue outbreak</a> has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</a>, health officials said here on Monday.

Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) Haritha Aluthge told the local Daily Mirror that the GMOA had informed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-appoints-16-member-interim-cabinet-263904">new Health Minister</a> Pavithra Wanniarachchi and the Secretary to the Ministry of Health about the seriousness of the issue as over 10 districts were affected by the rapid spread of the disease.

The continuous rains in many parts of the island were considered as one of the leading reasons for the spread of the virus.

Haritha was quoted as saying that while Colombo, Gampaha, in the outskirts of the capital city, as well as Kandy, in the central hills, were the worst affected districts, with almost 50 per cent of the total cases reported.

The case of the outbreak was reported from the Jaffna district in the northern region of the country.

In <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sky-is-limit-as-inaugural-flight-bridges-distance-between-chennai-and-jaffna-256557">Jaffna </a>alone, 7,000 dengue cases have been reported so far this year. Medical experts said that the number of deaths recorded so far this year was "alarming," in comparison to 58 deaths reported last year.

Medical experts further urged the people to seek immediate attention if they suffered symptoms of high fever, uncontrolled vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and reduced urinary.

"All fever patients need rest and should refrain from attending work or school," said epidemiologists, adding that dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can be fatal.

Medical experts also urged pregnant women to seek hospital admission immediately on the first day of fever.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-citing-violence-and-dengue-cuts-2018-tourist-arrivals-target-134074">Last year</a>, over 48,000 people were affected by the mosquito-borne virus in Sri Lanka, with the National Dengue Control Unit launching several programmes to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds in several districts of the island country.

A severe dengue outbreak has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in Sri Lanka, health officials said here on Monday.

A severe dengue outbreak has claimed the lives of at least 120 people and affected over 87,000 others across 11 districts in Sri Lanka, health officials said here on Monday. Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA) Haritha Aluthge told the local Daily Mirror that the GMOA had informed new Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and the Secretary to the Ministry of Health about the seriousness of the issue as over 10 districts were affected by the rapid spread of the disease. The continuous rains in many parts of the island were considered as one of the leading reasons for the spread of the virus. Haritha was quoted as saying that while Colombo, Gampaha, in the outskirts of the capital city, as well as Kandy, in the central hills, were the worst affected districts, with almost 50 per cent of the total cases reported. The case of the outbreak was reported from the Jaffna district in the northern region of the country. In Jaffna alone, 7,000 dengue cases have been reported so far this year. Medical experts said that the number of deaths recorded so far this year was "alarming," in comparison to 58 deaths reported last year. Medical experts further urged the people to seek immediate attention if they suffered symptoms of high fever, uncontrolled vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and reduced urinary. "All fever patients need rest and should refrain from attending work or school," said epidemiologists, adding that dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) can be fatal. Medical experts also urged pregnant women to seek hospital admission immediately on the first day of fever. Last year, over 48,000 people were affected by the mosquito-borne virus in Sri Lanka, with the National Dengue Control Unit launching several programmes to eradicate mosquito breeding grounds in several districts of the island country.

Dengue kills 120 in Sri Lanka, affects over 87,000 others

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. 
 
The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days. Moreover, fatalities by the infection have reached 79, Dawn reported. 
 
Expressing no concern, the authorities have said that surge is due to improved mechanism to record the number of cases. The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS), Sajid Shah, said,&nbsp;"This year an unprecedented number of dengue cases has been reported across the globe. Besides, the mechanism of recording the cases has improved across the country." 
 
Out of 49,587 cases, 13,173 cases were reported from Islamabad, 13,251 from Sindh, 9,855 from Punjab, 7,776 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 3,217 cases from Balochistan.

Besides, 1,690 cases were reported from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir while 625 cases were placed in the 'other' category.

Also known as 'dandy fever', dengue is one of the world's leading mosquito-borne illnesses taking scores of lives globally every year.

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days.

Over 49,000 people have been tested positive for dengue in Pakistan, setting a new record of the infection in the country. The surge in the number of cases was reported in the last 15 days. Moreover, fatalities by the infection have reached 79, Dawn reported. Expressing no concern, the authorities have said that surge is due to improved mechanism to record the number of cases. The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS), Sajid Shah, said, "This year an unprecedented number of dengue cases has been reported across the globe. Besides, the mechanism of recording the cases has improved across the country." Out of 49,587 cases, 13,173 cases were reported from Islamabad, 13,251 from Sindh, 9,855 from Punjab, 7,776 from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 3,217 cases from Balochistan. Besides, 1,690 cases were reported from Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir while 625 cases were placed in the 'other' category. Also known as 'dandy fever', dengue is one of the world's leading mosquito-borne illnesses taking scores of lives globally every year.

Pakistan: Dengue outbreak, 49,000 cases registered

Around 100 patients suffering from dengue fever visit hospitals across Kathmandu on an average daily, authorities have said.

"It is an unexpected outbreak following the previous one. It is unusual and occurred post the monsoons and has inflicted people majorly in Kathmandu," Dr Sher Bahadur Pun, chief of the Clinical Research Unit at Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital told ANI on Thursday.

According to records provided by the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division of Nepal, six patients have died and 14,662 patients suffering from the mosquito-borne disease have been registered across the Himalayan nation between July to early November.

Prior to this 3,424 people were infected three months before the latest epidemic took over.Kathmandu and Chitwan have so far recorded 7,151 dengue cases followed by Gandaki province with 3,807 cases.

Dengue has spread across 12 districts in province no. 1 recording 1,246 infections; 268 people from 8 districts of province no. 2; 1,977 infections in province no. 5; 73 in Karnali province; and 140 in the far-west province of Nepal, the records stated.

"The threat has continued in Kathmandu. It was seen this year along with the larva at a huge amount in and around various places. Kathmandu would remain in the risk zone," Dr Pun said.

The local municipality, in the initial phase of the outbreak, used the smog-gun in a bid to control the spread of the disease but such attempts have now been terminated, the doctor said.

Dengue fever, the symptoms of which range from a severe headache and high fever to internal bleeding, is primarily dangerous due to the possibility of recurrence.

A patient who has the fever develops immunity to only one of the four variations of the virus that causes it. Recurrent illnesses usually proceed more severely than the first ones.

Dengue fever most often affects children, middle-aged people and the elderly. However, up to half of the deaths related to the illness occur among adults between the ages of 20 to 40.&nbsp;

Around 100 patients suffering from dengue fever visit hospitals across Kathmandu on an average daily, authorities have said. "It is an unexpected outbreak following the previous one.

Around 100 patients suffering from dengue fever visit hospitals across Kathmandu on an average daily, authorities have said. "It is an unexpected outbreak following the previous one. It is unusual and occurred post the monsoons and has inflicted people majorly in Kathmandu," Dr Sher Bahadur Pun, chief of the Clinical Research Unit at Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital told ANI on Thursday. According to records provided by the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division of Nepal, six patients have died and 14,662 patients suffering from the mosquito-borne disease have been registered across the Himalayan nation between July to early November. Prior to this 3,424 people were infected three months before the latest epidemic took over.Kathmandu and Chitwan have so far recorded 7,151 dengue cases followed by Gandaki province with 3,807 cases. Dengue has spread across 12 districts in province no. 1 recording 1,246 infections; 268 people from 8 districts of province no. 2; 1,977 infections in province no. 5; 73 in Karnali province; and 140 in the far-west province of Nepal, the records stated. "The threat has continued in Kathmandu. It was seen this year along with the larva at a huge amount in and around various places. Kathmandu would remain in the risk zone," Dr Pun said. The local municipality, in the initial phase of the outbreak, used the smog-gun in a bid to control the spread of the disease but such attempts have now been terminated, the doctor said. Dengue fever, the symptoms of which range from a severe headache and high fever to internal bleeding, is primarily dangerous due to the possibility of recurrence. A patient who has the fever develops immunity to only one of the four variations of the virus that causes it. Recurrent illnesses usually proceed more severely than the first ones. Dengue fever most often affects children, middle-aged people and the elderly. However, up to half of the deaths related to the illness occur among adults between the ages of 20 to 40.

Nepal: Dengue patients continue to visit hospitals across Kathmandu

A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17.&nbsp;

District Malaria Officer, Patna, informed that out of total 1121 samples, 615 have been tested positive for dengue.

The dengue cases are on the rise in the state capital due to stagnant water that has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

After floods in several parts of the state following heavy rains, the threat of a dengue epidemic looms large.&nbsp;

Earlier on October 9, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had visited a hospital in the state capital to review the preparedness of government hospitals.&nbsp;

On the other hand, on October 17, a complaint was filed against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, several ministers and Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials seeking action against them over the recent floods.

The complaint was filed in the court of Patna Chief Judicial Magistrate under several Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including 302 (murder) and (120B) criminal conspiracy.&nbsp;

A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. District Malaria Officer, Patna, informed that out of total 1121 samples, 615 have been tested positive for dengue.

A total of 615 dengue cases have been reported in the city this year till October 17. District Malaria Officer, Patna, informed that out of total 1121 samples, 615 have been tested positive for dengue. The dengue cases are on the rise in the state capital due to stagnant water that has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. After floods in several parts of the state following heavy rains, the threat of a dengue epidemic looms large. Earlier on October 9, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had visited a hospital in the state capital to review the preparedness of government hospitals. On the other hand, on October 17, a complaint was filed against Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, several ministers and Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials seeking action against them over the recent floods. The complaint was filed in the court of Patna Chief Judicial Magistrate under several Sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including 302 (murder) and (120B) criminal conspiracy.

Over 600 dengue cases reported in Patna

A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme.

According to the data, Karnataka saw 12,756 dengue cases till October 13, which is the highest. Eight deaths have been reported due to dengue.

Bihar, which is grappling with flash floods triggered by torrential rains, saw 1,588 dengue cases.

The state capital, Patna, reported 1,135 dengue cases during the stipulated period. Poll-bound Maharashtra reported 7,863 dengue cases with four people losing their lives due to the disease.

According to the report, Uttarakhand saw 7,513 cases and eight deaths were reported. Kerala, on the other hand, saw 13 dengue deaths, and 3,075 cases being reported.Gujarat reported 5,819 dengue cases and six people had lost their lives till October 13, the report said.

National capital Delhi saw 1,431 cases of dengue but no deaths have been reported so far.

&nbsp;

A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme.

A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme. According to the data, Karnataka saw 12,756 dengue cases till October 13, which is the highest. Eight deaths have been reported due to dengue. Bihar, which is grappling with flash floods triggered by torrential rains, saw 1,588 dengue cases. The state capital, Patna, reported 1,135 dengue cases during the stipulated period. Poll-bound Maharashtra reported 7,863 dengue cases with four people losing their lives due to the disease. According to the report, Uttarakhand saw 7,513 cases and eight deaths were reported. Kerala, on the other hand, saw 13 dengue deaths, and 3,075 cases being reported.Gujarat reported 5,819 dengue cases and six people had lost their lives till October 13, the report said. National capital Delhi saw 1,431 cases of dengue but no deaths have been reported so far.

67,377 dengue cases, 48 deaths reported across India till October this year

There is an ongoing dengue outbreak in Karachi with over 1,100 dengue cases reported in the first eight days of October. 
 
The public and private sector hospitals in Karachi have been receiving a growing number of high-grade fever cases with many of them testing positive for the Dandy Fever, Dawn reported. 
 
"North Nazimabad is a dengue hotspot along with Garden East, Union Council four&nbsp;of Metroville, Clifton Cantonment Board and Soldier Bazaar," said Dr Abdul Basit of Sindh's Dengue Control Programme on Tuesday. 
 
He also said that the department received data from hospitals and carried out fumigation (a process of disinfecting an area) in affected houses located in areas where plenty of cases were reported. 
 
"Routine fumigation is the responsibility of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and respective district municipal corporations," he said when asked why fumigation was not launched as a preventive measure before the monsoon. 
 
According to the official statistics, 115 dengue cases were reported in Karachi on Tuesday while eight in the rest of Sindh's districts. 
 
Reportedly, 4,403 dengue cases have come across this year in Sindh province, out of which 4,151 were reported from Karachi. The deadly fever has claimed 15 lives this year. 
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has asked for immediate anti-mosquito spray campaigns for eliminating mosquitoes. 
 
"Government should immediately start anti-mosquito spray campaigns on an emergency basis throughout Pakistan because the disease could only be prevented by eliminating mosquitoes. There is no vaccine or specific treatment to combat this disease," the association said in a release.

There is an ongoing dengue outbreak in Karachi with over 1,100 dengue cases reported in the first eight days of October. The public and private sector hospitals in Karachi have been receiving a growing number of high-grade fever cases with many of them testing positive for the Dandy Fever, Dawn reported.

There is an ongoing dengue outbreak in Karachi with over 1,100 dengue cases reported in the first eight days of October. The public and private sector hospitals in Karachi have been receiving a growing number of high-grade fever cases with many of them testing positive for the Dandy Fever, Dawn reported. "North Nazimabad is a dengue hotspot along with Garden East, Union Council four of Metroville, Clifton Cantonment Board and Soldier Bazaar," said Dr Abdul Basit of Sindh's Dengue Control Programme on Tuesday. He also said that the department received data from hospitals and carried out fumigation (a process of disinfecting an area) in affected houses located in areas where plenty of cases were reported. "Routine fumigation is the responsibility of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation and respective district municipal corporations," he said when asked why fumigation was not launched as a preventive measure before the monsoon. According to the official statistics, 115 dengue cases were reported in Karachi on Tuesday while eight in the rest of Sindh's districts. Reportedly, 4,403 dengue cases have come across this year in Sindh province, out of which 4,151 were reported from Karachi. The deadly fever has claimed 15 lives this year. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has asked for immediate anti-mosquito spray campaigns for eliminating mosquitoes. "Government should immediately start anti-mosquito spray campaigns on an emergency basis throughout Pakistan because the disease could only be prevented by eliminating mosquitoes. There is no vaccine or specific treatment to combat this disease," the association said in a release.

Dengue outbreak in Karachi, over 1100 test positive in 8 days

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-are-scared-deadly-dengue-outbreak-overwhelms-bangladesh-241461">dengue death toll</a>&nbsp;has increased from 68 to 75 in Bangladesh, said Health Emergency Operation Centre and Control Room at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday.

Adding that the number of patients currently undergoing treatment in government and private hospitals in the country was 2,018, DGHS also stated that a total of 461 dengue patients have been admitted to different hospitals across Bangladesh in the last 24 hours.

According to data, as many as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-faces-worst-ever-dengue-fever-outbreak-239918">75 people have died</a> across the country from January 1 till September 23. However, the unofficial death toll is reported to be at least 162 so far, reported Dhaka Tribune.

While 861 patients were currently receiving treatment in 41 government and private hospitals in Dhaka, over 1,157 people were undergoing treatment outside Dhaka, the DGHS said in a press release.

Since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/around-3931-patients-undergoing-treatment-as-dengue-wreaks-havoc-in-bangladesh-247190">January this year</a>, as many as 85,288 people have been affected by dengue in the country.

Among the admitted, a total of 83,046 have been released from their respective hospitals and clinics after treatment.

The dengue death toll has increased from 68 to 75 in Bangladesh, said Health Emergency Operation Centre and Control Room at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday.

The dengue death toll has increased from 68 to 75 in Bangladesh, said Health Emergency Operation Centre and Control Room at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday. Adding that the number of patients currently undergoing treatment in government and private hospitals in the country was 2,018, DGHS also stated that a total of 461 dengue patients have been admitted to different hospitals across Bangladesh in the last 24 hours. According to data, as many as 75 people have died across the country from January 1 till September 23. However, the unofficial death toll is reported to be at least 162 so far, reported Dhaka Tribune. While 861 patients were currently receiving treatment in 41 government and private hospitals in Dhaka, over 1,157 people were undergoing treatment outside Dhaka, the DGHS said in a press release. Since January this year, as many as 85,288 people have been affected by dengue in the country. Among the admitted, a total of 83,046 have been released from their respective hospitals and clinics after treatment.

Bangladesh struggles to contain dengue outbreak, death toll climbs to 75

The Philippines recorded its second case of polio on Friday, as it prepared to vaccinate millions of children against a disease believed to have been eradicated two decades ago.

A five-year-old boy in Laguna, south of the capital Manila, tested positive for the polio virus, the Health Department said, the second case this week after a three-year-old girl was confirmed to be infected on Monday in a province about 1,400 km away.

Health officials appealed to parents and caregivers of children to take part in the government's Polio Vaccination Programme, which comes as the Philippines grapples to tackle twin outbreaks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-suspends-worlds-first-dengue-vaccine-25587">dengue</a> and measles that have killed more than 1,000 people since January, most of them children.

"The polio vaccinations happen all year round, but our coverage dropped for the past five years", Rolando Enrique Domingo, an undersecretary of the Department of Health, told Reuters.

"We've learned our lesson. It is time to move on and really start vaccinating all kids and make sure we sustain this every year", he added.

The polio virus was detected in the sewage systems of Davao in a nearby province two months ago, and in Tondo, a rundown area of Metro Manila notorious for slum communities, Domingo said.

Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan are the last three countries where the disease is endemic. The last known case in the Philippines had been in 1993, the World Health Organization says.

Immunisation coverage in the Philippines is at 70%, below the recommended rate of 95%, Domingo said, as trust in vaccines declines.

The boy who tested positive in Laguna has been discharged from hospital already, officials said on Friday. The other case was confirmed on Monday and reported on Thursday in Lanao del Sur, one of the country's poorest provinces.

Vaccination teams will aim to administer polio drops to every child younger than five, he added.

There is no cure for polio, which invades the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis within hours, but it can be prevented with vaccines.

The virus spreads rapidly among children, especially in unsanitary conditions in underdeveloped or war-torn regions where healthcare access is limited.

Children nationwide are at risk as long as a single child remains infected, the United Nations agency for children, UNICEF, has said.

The Philippines has faced a challenge recently in convincing parents to vaccinate children after it scrapped a dengue immunisation programme using Sanofi's Dengvaxia in late 2017, following its linkage to child deaths.

More than 800,000 children received the vaccine. The records of 119 dead children are being examined to determine if Dengvaxia was to blame, a panel of medical experts said in March.

The inquiry continues and Sanofi has repeatedly said that its vaccine is safe.

A vaccine campaign that started in August in the historic heart of Manila will be expanded to cover more than 5 million children and will go nationwide next year, Health Secretary Francisco Duque said in a speech on Friday.

The Philippines recorded its second case of polio on Friday, as it prepared to vaccinate millions of children against a disease believed to have been eradicated two decades ago.

The Philippines recorded its second case of polio on Friday, as it prepared to vaccinate millions of children against a disease believed to have been eradicated two decades ago. A five-year-old boy in Laguna, south of the capital Manila, tested positive for the polio virus, the Health Department said, the second case this week after a three-year-old girl was confirmed to be infected on Monday in a province about 1,400 km away. Health officials appealed to parents and caregivers of children to take part in the government's Polio Vaccination Programme, which comes as the Philippines grapples to tackle twin outbreaks of dengue and measles that have killed more than 1,000 people since January, most of them children. "The polio vaccinations happen all year round, but our coverage dropped for the past five years", Rolando Enrique Domingo, an undersecretary of the Department of Health, told Reuters. "We've learned our lesson. It is time to move on and really start vaccinating all kids and make sure we sustain this every year", he added. The polio virus was detected in the sewage systems of Davao in a nearby province two months ago, and in Tondo, a rundown area of Metro Manila notorious for slum communities, Domingo said. Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan are the last three countries where the disease is endemic. The last known case in the Philippines had been in 1993, the World Health Organization says. Immunisation coverage in the Philippines is at 70%, below the recommended rate of 95%, Domingo said, as trust in vaccines declines. The boy who tested positive in Laguna has been discharged from hospital already, officials said on Friday. The other case was confirmed on Monday and reported on Thursday in Lanao del Sur, one of the country's poorest provinces. Vaccination teams will aim to administer polio drops to every child younger than five, he added. There is no cure for polio, which invades the nervous system and can cause irreversible paralysis within hours, but it can be prevented with vaccines. The virus spreads rapidly among children, especially in unsanitary conditions in underdeveloped or war-torn regions where healthcare access is limited. Children nationwide are at risk as long as a single child remains infected, the United Nations agency for children, UNICEF, has said. The Philippines has faced a challenge recently in convincing parents to vaccinate children after it scrapped a dengue immunisation programme using Sanofi's Dengvaxia in late 2017, following its linkage to child deaths. More than 800,000 children received the vaccine. The records of 119 dead children are being examined to determine if Dengvaxia was to blame, a panel of medical experts said in March. The inquiry continues and Sanofi has repeatedly said that its vaccine is safe. A vaccine campaign that started in August in the historic heart of Manila will be expanded to cover more than 5 million children and will go nationwide next year, Health Secretary Francisco Duque said in a speech on Friday.

Philippines to vaccinate millions as Polio virus resurfaces in two children

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic.

He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency.

<iframe data-google-container-id="4" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>"In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate.

The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday.

Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government.

As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded.

The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation.

The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only.

Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public.

During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts.

Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak.

Nepalese Deputy Prime Minister Upendra Yadav has claimed that there is no such condition to declare "Health Emergency" in the country following the dengue outbreak. After facing intense criticism and demand from the MPs of opposition parties, Yadav, who is also a Minister for Health and Population claimed that the government was capable of controlling the epidemic. He, therefore, refrained from demands of declaring an emergency. "In our country, this disease also emerged to be complex like that of other nations but is seen with very minimal effect and for having a very low mortality rate. The situation of emergency would not be viable for Nepal and would like to acknowledge it to everyone present here," Yadav said in his address to the Parliament on Wednesday. Referring to the latest outbreak of dengue in Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations, Yadav claimed that it has been contained through the active involvement of all three tiers of government. As per Health Minister, the total number of infected people in the Himalayan nation now stands at 5,095 with six mortalities recorded. The disease has already gripped 56 districts of the nation. The government has been able to dispense the dengue tests kits to only 11 affected districts with special sanitation campaign underway in Dharan, Ithari, Biratnagar and Pokhara districts only. Several MPs from the opposition and the ruling party had questioned Health Minister on government being silent over declaring the disease as "Health Emergency", even though it was taking the form of epidemic worrying the public. During a meeting, lawmaker Devendra Raj Kandel questioned the minister about not declaring the state of emergency when the disease had already spread to 56 districts. Other lawmakers namely Sujata Pariyar, Khagaraj Adhikari, Ram Bahadur Bista, Dilendra Prasad Badu, Amanlal Modi, Pushpa Bhusal, Prem Suwal, Parbata DC Chaudhary, Dev Prasad Timilsina, Meena Subba, Jeevan Ram Shrestha, Birodh Khatiwada , Krishna Gopal Shrestha, Rajendra Kumar KC and Nabina Lama also drew the government's attention to dengue epidemic in the country.

No such condition to declare 'Health Emergency' in Nepal after dengue outbreak

What is dengue, and why is it so widespread this year?

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month.

Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees.

Similarly, social organisations have also initiated awareness campaigns and rallies to combat the infection, The Himalayan Time reported.

"As many as 2,892 people had visited various hospitals in the district for treatment. Of them, 1,036 were found infected with dengue,"&nbsp;said Vector Control Inspector Ram KC of District Health Office Chitwan.

"Dengue was detected in people living in urban areas and dense settlement and as many as 800 people were found infected with dengue in Bharatpur Metropolitan City alone," District Health Office added.

Bharatpur Hospital senior physician Dr Bhojraj Adhikari said mosquitoes responsible for dengue outbreak were more common in city areas as compared to rural areas.

There has been an extraordinary rise in the number of dengue cases across the landlocked country. Doctors have suggested keeping the environment clean as a preventive measure.

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month. Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees.

Nepal has begun large-scale awareness campaigns to deal with the dengue outbreak in Chitwan District after nearly 1,000 people were infected last month. Campaigns are underway to destroy mosquitoes in cooperation with local-level authorities and reform committees. Similarly, social organisations have also initiated awareness campaigns and rallies to combat the infection, The Himalayan Time reported. "As many as 2,892 people had visited various hospitals in the district for treatment. Of them, 1,036 were found infected with dengue," said Vector Control Inspector Ram KC of District Health Office Chitwan. "Dengue was detected in people living in urban areas and dense settlement and as many as 800 people were found infected with dengue in Bharatpur Metropolitan City alone," District Health Office added. Bharatpur Hospital senior physician Dr Bhojraj Adhikari said mosquitoes responsible for dengue outbreak were more common in city areas as compared to rural areas. There has been an extraordinary rise in the number of dengue cases across the landlocked country. Doctors have suggested keeping the environment clean as a preventive measure.

Nepal begins large-scale awareness campaigns to tackle dengue outbreak

As many as 3,931 patients suffering from dengue are undergoing treatment at different hospitals and clinics across Bangladesh, said officials of Health Crisis Management and Control Room of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday.

According to the DGHS, of the 3,931 dengue patients, around 2,177 patients are taking treatment in Dhaka division while a total of 1,754 are hospitalized outside the capital, Dhaka Tribune reported.

Adding that as many as 71,962 patients got admitted to different hospitals and clinics across Bangladesh since January this year, the health department said, "Of them, 67,843 patients have returned home after recovery.

"According to official data, dengue claimed 57 lives so far and 865 new dengue patients were admitted to different hospitals in the last 24 hours in Bangladesh.

As many as 3,931 patients suffering from dengue are undergoing treatment at different hospitals and clinics across Bangladesh, said officials of Health Crisis Management and Control Room of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday.

As many as 3,931 patients suffering from dengue are undergoing treatment at different hospitals and clinics across Bangladesh, said officials of Health Crisis Management and Control Room of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Monday. According to the DGHS, of the 3,931 dengue patients, around 2,177 patients are taking treatment in Dhaka division while a total of 1,754 are hospitalized outside the capital, Dhaka Tribune reported. Adding that as many as 71,962 patients got admitted to different hospitals and clinics across Bangladesh since January this year, the health department said, "Of them, 67,843 patients have returned home after recovery. "According to official data, dengue claimed 57 lives so far and 865 new dengue patients were admitted to different hospitals in the last 24 hours in Bangladesh.

Around 3,931 patients undergoing treatment as dengue wreaks havoc in Bangladesh

Five-year-old Mohammad Ahnaf lies in a makeshift bed in the balcony of a major hospital in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, fighting for his life as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-faces-worst-ever-dengue-fever-outbreak-239918">dengue fever</a> ravages his little body.

But his mother Shimul Akhter knows he is one of the lucky ones as Bangladesh grapples with its worst-ever outbreak of the viral fever -- 23 have died and many cannot get access to medical help at all.&nbsp;

Since January, almost 30,000 people have been hospitalised with the disease nationwide, and in the past week, some 2,000 patients a day have been admitted to hospitals.&nbsp;

"The situation is like an epidemic. But no-one is admitting it," one expert, who asked to remain anonymous, told AFP adding the real number of those with dengue was likely to be several times higher than official figures, which are based on limited data.

Panic is setting in. Such is the terror of those with symptoms that medical staff have been attacked as they try to stretch the meagre resources around and in some cases armed guards have been called in for protection.

Facilities are struggling to cope with the influx -- mattresses line every inch of spare floor extending beyond wards into corridors and balconies.

Dengue, which causes flu-like symptoms, can be deadly if it develops into a hemorrhagic fever. There is no vaccine or any specific medicine to treat dengue, according to the World Health Organisation.

'People panic'

Authorities are worried the situation is set to worsen.

With the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holidays, the fever could spread to remote villages as tens of millions of people head back to rural areas to celebrate the Muslim festival.

At Suhrawardi Medical College Hospital in central Dhaka where Ahnaf has been admitted, all the wards are full of dengue patients.

New arrivals are given whatever open space is available in the hospital.

"There is no bed available inside the wards. Too many patients are getting admitted and too many patients have been sent back," Akhter said.

"But Allah was kind, we got a bed in the balcony after waiting for hours," the 30-year-old added.

At the hospital's diagnosis centre, hundreds of people -- many clutching sick babies in their laps -- queued up to take dengue tests.

"Doctors decide which dengue patient should be admitted to hospital and who would take treatment at home.&nbsp;

"But people's attitude towards dengue has changed. They are panicked and everyone wants to get admitted in the hospital," explained Suhrawardi's director Uttam Kumar Barua, adding that exhausted medical teams had been working round the clock for weeks.&nbsp;

Outside, people crowd pharmacies to buy mosquito repellents, with some stores running out of supplies in recent days. Other residents say the ointments and sprays are now being sold at exorbitant prices.

'National disaster'

The head of Bangladesh's National Health Rights Society, renowned doctor Rashid-e-Mahbub, said the "national disaster" was in part caused by the lack of anti-mosquito measures before the annual monsoon season.

Leading virologist Saifullah Munshi added that a construction boom in Dhaka, unplanned urbanisation and climate change -- which has caused a spike in humidity and intermittent rains -- had created ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito, which spreads the disease.

The country's health department said some 23 people have died so far, although it has cautioned the official fatality figures are low due to a slow validation process.&nbsp;

But mass-circulation Bengali daily Prothom Alo said the death toll was nearly 100.

Meanwhile, Akhter fears for her family's health. The hospital doesn't have a dedicated paediatric intensive care unit to handle severe cases such as Mohammad.

Her other son, who is just three years old, is also starting to feel feverish.

She says: "We are very much scared. My elder boy is still not out of danger. Now he (younger son) felt warm this morning. I hope he has not caught dengue."

Five-year-old Mohammad Ahnaf lies in a makeshift bed in the balcony of a major hospital in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, fighting for his life as dengue fever ravages his little body.

Five-year-old Mohammad Ahnaf lies in a makeshift bed in the balcony of a major hospital in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, fighting for his life as dengue fever ravages his little body. But his mother Shimul Akhter knows he is one of the lucky ones as Bangladesh grapples with its worst-ever outbreak of the viral fever -- 23 have died and many cannot get access to medical help at all. Since January, almost 30,000 people have been hospitalised with the disease nationwide, and in the past week, some 2,000 patients a day have been admitted to hospitals. "The situation is like an epidemic. But no-one is admitting it," one expert, who asked to remain anonymous, told AFP adding the real number of those with dengue was likely to be several times higher than official figures, which are based on limited data. Panic is setting in. Such is the terror of those with symptoms that medical staff have been attacked as they try to stretch the meagre resources around and in some cases armed guards have been called in for protection. Facilities are struggling to cope with the influx -- mattresses line every inch of spare floor extending beyond wards into corridors and balconies. Dengue, which causes flu-like symptoms, can be deadly if it develops into a hemorrhagic fever. There is no vaccine or any specific medicine to treat dengue, according to the World Health Organisation. 'People panic' Authorities are worried the situation is set to worsen. With the upcoming Eid al-Fitr holidays, the fever could spread to remote villages as tens of millions of people head back to rural areas to celebrate the Muslim festival. At Suhrawardi Medical College Hospital in central Dhaka where Ahnaf has been admitted, all the wards are full of dengue patients. New arrivals are given whatever open space is available in the hospital. "There is no bed available inside the wards. Too many patients are getting admitted and too many patients have been sent back," Akhter said. "But Allah was kind, we got a bed in the balcony after waiting for hours," the 30-year-old added. At the hospital's diagnosis centre, hundreds of people -- many clutching sick babies in their laps -- queued up to take dengue tests. "Doctors decide which dengue patient should be admitted to hospital and who would take treatment at home. "But people's attitude towards dengue has changed. They are panicked and everyone wants to get admitted in the hospital," explained Suhrawardi's director Uttam Kumar Barua, adding that exhausted medical teams had been working round the clock for weeks. Outside, people crowd pharmacies to buy mosquito repellents, with some stores running out of supplies in recent days. Other residents say the ointments and sprays are now being sold at exorbitant prices. 'National disaster' The head of Bangladesh's National Health Rights Society, renowned doctor Rashid-e-Mahbub, said the "national disaster" was in part caused by the lack of anti-mosquito measures before the annual monsoon season. Leading virologist Saifullah Munshi added that a construction boom in Dhaka, unplanned urbanisation and climate change -- which has caused a spike in humidity and intermittent rains -- had created ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito, which spreads the disease. The country's health department said some 23 people have died so far, although it has cautioned the official fatality figures are low due to a slow validation process. But mass-circulation Bengali daily Prothom Alo said the death toll was nearly 100. Meanwhile, Akhter fears for her family's health. The hospital doesn't have a dedicated paediatric intensive care unit to handle severe cases such as Mohammad. Her other son, who is just three years old, is also starting to feel feverish. She says: "We are very much scared. My elder boy is still not out of danger. Now he (younger son) felt warm this morning. I hope he has not caught dengue."

'We are scared': Deadly dengue outbreak overwhelms Bangladesh

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak.

The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday.

The country capital Dhaka has registered the highest number of deaths in the case.

The viral has so far claimed the lives of fourteen&nbsp;people.

Around 15,369 patients have been diagnosed with the fever since January.&nbsp;Out of this over 9,683&nbsp;cases were registered in the month of July.&nbsp;

As of Tuesday, about 4,400 patients, including many children, were undergoing hospital treatment.&nbsp;

The figures&nbsp;show a sharp increase in the number of cases over the months.&nbsp;

Hospitals are flooded with patients, putting a severe strain on the country's already overwhelmed medical system.

&nbsp;

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak. The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday.

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak. The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday. The country capital Dhaka has registered the highest number of deaths in the case. The viral has so far claimed the lives of fourteen people. Around 15,369 patients have been diagnosed with the fever since January. Out of this over 9,683 cases were registered in the month of July. As of Tuesday, about 4,400 patients, including many children, were undergoing hospital treatment. The figures show a sharp increase in the number of cases over the months. Hospitals are flooded with patients, putting a severe strain on the country's already overwhelmed medical system.

Bangladesh faces worst ever Dengue fever outbreak

Three people died and as many as 404 cases of dengue and malaria have been detected in Dakshina Kannada district, officials said on Sunday.

Speaking to ANI, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district Sasikanth Senthil said, "Due to the peculiar weather condition in the city, we are seeing a spurt in the cases of fever since July 1. As many as 404 dengue and malaria cases have been detected, of which we've suspected three cases where dengue fatalities occurred."

"In the last three weeks, there is a spike in the number of patients admitted to various hospitals due to viral fever. The blood samples of patients suspected of having dengue have been collected and sent for testing," he added.

Senthil said the district administration and health department have constituted special teams to tackle the situation.

Data compiled by the Health Ministry has revealed that at least 8,058 positive dengue cases with eight deaths, and 14404 cases of Chikungunya have been reported from across the country till June 30 this year.

A total of 66,313 Malaria cases have also been reported from across the country till May 31 this year, according to available data.&nbsp;

Three people died and as many as 404 cases of dengue and malaria have been detected in Dakshina Kannada district, officials said on Sunday. Speaking to ANI, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district Sasikanth Senthil said, "Due to the peculiar weather condition in the city, we are seeing a spurt in the cases of fever since July 1.

Three people died and as many as 404 cases of dengue and malaria have been detected in Dakshina Kannada district, officials said on Sunday. Speaking to ANI, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada district Sasikanth Senthil said, "Due to the peculiar weather condition in the city, we are seeing a spurt in the cases of fever since July 1. As many as 404 dengue and malaria cases have been detected, of which we've suspected three cases where dengue fatalities occurred." "In the last three weeks, there is a spike in the number of patients admitted to various hospitals due to viral fever. The blood samples of patients suspected of having dengue have been collected and sent for testing," he added. Senthil said the district administration and health department have constituted special teams to tackle the situation. Data compiled by the Health Ministry has revealed that at least 8,058 positive dengue cases with eight deaths, and 14404 cases of Chikungunya have been reported from across the country till June 30 this year. A total of 66,313 Malaria cases have also been reported from across the country till May 31 this year, according to available data.

3 dead, 404 dengue and malaria cases detected in Dakshina Kannada

Nepal on Sunday directed the authorities to be prepared for a possible outbreak of dengue after studies found the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.

The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division of the Health Ministry issued an alert in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts.

The move came after studies found the presence of dengue-carrying mosquitoes in significant numbers.

Last year, at least 18 people in the Banasthali-Sano Bharyang area in the western part of Kathmandu were infected with the dengue virus.

"We have alerted all local units of the Valley through the provincial government and District Public Health Offices about the possible outbreak (of dengue virus)," Ghanashyam Pokhrel, a senior public health administrator at the division, told reporters.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease which is transmitted by the female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.

The same vector also transmits chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika virus, according to the World Health Organization.

"We already have dengue vector present in our locality and the environment for it to survive. And we already have dengue patients in the Capital," Pokhrel said.

"We have allocated a budget for the awareness programmes against possible dengue infection. The provincial government has also allocated a budget for dengue prevention," said Geeta Satyal, deputy mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City.

Public Health Inspector Indira Pandey at the provincial health office in Kathmandu said that budget has been allocated to local units to carry out awareness campaigns and search- and destroy-campaigns against dengue-carrying mosquitoes.

According to doctors, mild to high fever, severe muscle pain, rashes, severe headache and pain in eyes are some of the symptoms of dengue.

Nepal on Sunday directed the authorities to be prepared for a possible outbreak of dengue after studies found the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division of the Health Ministry issued an alert in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts.

Nepal on Sunday directed the authorities to be prepared for a possible outbreak of dengue after studies found the presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division of the Health Ministry issued an alert in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur districts. The move came after studies found the presence of dengue-carrying mosquitoes in significant numbers. Last year, at least 18 people in the Banasthali-Sano Bharyang area in the western part of Kathmandu were infected with the dengue virus. "We have alerted all local units of the Valley through the provincial government and District Public Health Offices about the possible outbreak (of dengue virus)," Ghanashyam Pokhrel, a senior public health administrator at the division, told reporters. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease which is transmitted by the female Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The same vector also transmits chikungunya, yellow fever and Zika virus, according to the World Health Organization. "We already have dengue vector present in our locality and the environment for it to survive. And we already have dengue patients in the Capital," Pokhrel said. "We have allocated a budget for the awareness programmes against possible dengue infection. The provincial government has also allocated a budget for dengue prevention," said Geeta Satyal, deputy mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City. Public Health Inspector Indira Pandey at the provincial health office in Kathmandu said that budget has been allocated to local units to carry out awareness campaigns and search- and destroy-campaigns against dengue-carrying mosquitoes. According to doctors, mild to high fever, severe muscle pain, rashes, severe headache and pain in eyes are some of the symptoms of dengue.

Nepal issues dengue alert as studies find presence of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/176-dengue-cases-reported-in-delhi-last-week-9072-this-year-25823">dengue</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chikungunya-outbreak-panic-a-bigger-cause-for-worry-than-fever-say-doctors-6532">chikungunya </a>-- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon.

Asking the people to take preventive measures, Chief Minister Kejriwal said, "We are ready to face any challenges this year."

"The monsoon is about to reach Delhi. There are heavy chances of diseases like chikungunya and dengue. We wish you and your family a healthy life," he said.

Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with the officials of all departments concerned and reviewed the preparedness to deal with vector-borne diseases effectively.&nbsp;

As many as 2,700 cases of dengue were reported last year as compared to 15,000 cases in 2015. "We will try our best this year to keep the number low," said Kejriwal in the tweet.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of dengue and chikungunya -- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said that his government is prepared to deal with the challenge of dengue and chikungunya -- two water-borne diseases which hit the city-state every year during the monsoon. Asking the people to take preventive measures, Chief Minister Kejriwal said, "We are ready to face any challenges this year." "The monsoon is about to reach Delhi. There are heavy chances of diseases like chikungunya and dengue. We wish you and your family a healthy life," he said. Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with the officials of all departments concerned and reviewed the preparedness to deal with vector-borne diseases effectively. As many as 2,700 cases of dengue were reported last year as compared to 15,000 cases in 2015. "We will try our best this year to keep the number low," said Kejriwal in the tweet.

We are prepared to deal with challenge of dengue, chikungunya: Kejriwal

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday.

The report says nearly 350 of the cases came to light in the first two weeks of this month alone.

Also, 385 cases of malaria and 97 of chikungunya have been reported this season till October 13, the report said.

Of the 830 dengue cases this year, 374 were recorded in September, 58 in August, 19 in July, eight in June, 10 in May, two in April, one in March, three in February and six cases in January.

Two cases of malaria were reported in February, one each in April and March, 17 in May, 25 in June, 42 in July, 82 in August, 138 in September and 77 till October 6, according to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates data on vector-borne diseases for the city.

A senior doctor at a government-run facility advised people to take all precautions like wearing full-sleeves and not allowing the breeding of mosquito larvae inside their homes.

"Water coolers should be dried up when not in use as dengue infection carrying mosquitoes breed there a lot. Mosquito nets should be used at home," the doctor said.&nbsp;

The cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. No vector-borne disease case was reported till January 13.

The report said domestic breeding checkers found mosquito breeding in 1,87,239 households in the city till October 13. It said 1,52,776 legal notices have been served for various violations and "26,388 prosecutions initiated".

As a pro-active measure, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had few a months ago directed local bodies and other agencies to intensify vector-control measures.

He had also asked for regular meetings at the level of district magistrates with all stakeholders to review the situation in their respective districts.

According to the SDMC, 10 people died due to dengue in Delhi last year, of whom five were not residents of the national capital.

Overall, the vector-borne disease had affected 9,271 people in the city last year.

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday.

Dengue cases have mounted in the city, with at least 830 people being diagnosed with the vector-borne disease this season, over 42 per cent of which were reported this month, according to a municipal report released Monday. The report says nearly 350 of the cases came to light in the first two weeks of this month alone. Also, 385 cases of malaria and 97 of chikungunya have been reported this season till October 13, the report said. Of the 830 dengue cases this year, 374 were recorded in September, 58 in August, 19 in July, eight in June, 10 in May, two in April, one in March, three in February and six cases in January. Two cases of malaria were reported in February, one each in April and March, 17 in May, 25 in June, 42 in July, 82 in August, 138 in September and 77 till October 6, according to the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates data on vector-borne diseases for the city. A senior doctor at a government-run facility advised people to take all precautions like wearing full-sleeves and not allowing the breeding of mosquito larvae inside their homes. "Water coolers should be dried up when not in use as dengue infection carrying mosquitoes breed there a lot. Mosquito nets should be used at home," the doctor said. The cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between July and November, but the period may stretch to mid-December. No vector-borne disease case was reported till January 13. The report said domestic breeding checkers found mosquito breeding in 1,87,239 households in the city till October 13. It said 1,52,776 legal notices have been served for various violations and "26,388 prosecutions initiated". As a pro-active measure, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had few a months ago directed local bodies and other agencies to intensify vector-control measures. He had also asked for regular meetings at the level of district magistrates with all stakeholders to review the situation in their respective districts. According to the SDMC, 10 people died due to dengue in Delhi last year, of whom five were not residents of the national capital. Overall, the vector-borne disease had affected 9,271 people in the city last year.

830 dengue cases in Delhi, nearly 350 recorded in October

At least 100 cases of dengue have been confirmed in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district till October 10.

Speaking to ANI, RS Rana, Chief Medical Officer of Kangra district, said that the health department has initiated an awareness campaign to prevent the disease from spreading.

"The health department has initiated an awareness campaign in all the regions. Our ASHA workers and other health workers are informing the people about various methods of precautions. Apart from this, our department has started fogging to kill the mosquitoes, which will continue till November," Rana said.

The Chief Medical Officer said that one can protect themselves from dengue by not getting panic attacks and by being cautious.

He also said that all the dengue cases recorded positive are being treated and till now no death has been recorded in this matter. 
&nbsp;

At least 100 cases of dengue have been confirmed in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district till October 10. Speaking to ANI, RS Rana, Chief Medical Officer of Kangra district, said that the health department has initiated an awareness campaign to prevent the disease from spreading.

At least 100 cases of dengue have been confirmed in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district till October 10. Speaking to ANI, RS Rana, Chief Medical Officer of Kangra district, said that the health department has initiated an awareness campaign to prevent the disease from spreading. "The health department has initiated an awareness campaign in all the regions. Our ASHA workers and other health workers are informing the people about various methods of precautions. Apart from this, our department has started fogging to kill the mosquitoes, which will continue till November," Rana said. The Chief Medical Officer said that one can protect themselves from dengue by not getting panic attacks and by being cautious. He also said that all the dengue cases recorded positive are being treated and till now no death has been recorded in this matter.

100 cases of dengue reported in Himachal's Kangra

At least 26 people have tested positive for dengue in five districts of Jammu region this year, a health official said Sunday.

The maximum 11 cases were reported from Kathua district followed by seven in Samba, six in Jammu and one each in Kishtwar and Udhampur districts, the official said.

He said the people who tested positive for the vector-borne disease included 10 women and five boys.

A total of 460 samples were taken for screening since January, the official said, adding, 442 test reports were received by Saturday evening, of which 416 were found negative.

Eighteen test reports were awaited.

He said a majority of the cases tested positive for dengue last month.

The first dengue case was reported in January, one in July and two in August, while two cases were found positive this month, he said. Twenty cases were reported last month.

Among those tested positive, the official said three residents of Jammu were outside the state.

The official said there was no need to panic as all necessary measures have been taken to keep the situation under control.

The dengue cases usually go up after the monsoon season as the main trigger for the disease is stagnant water, he said, and advised people not to allow water to stagnate around residential structures.&nbsp;

At least 26 people have tested positive for dengue in five districts of Jammu region this year, a health official said Sunday. The maximum 11 cases were reported from Kathua district followed by seven in Samba, six in Jammu and one each in Kishtwar and Udhampur districts, the official said.

At least 26 people have tested positive for dengue in five districts of Jammu region this year, a health official said Sunday. The maximum 11 cases were reported from Kathua district followed by seven in Samba, six in Jammu and one each in Kishtwar and Udhampur districts, the official said. He said the people who tested positive for the vector-borne disease included 10 women and five boys. A total of 460 samples were taken for screening since January, the official said, adding, 442 test reports were received by Saturday evening, of which 416 were found negative. Eighteen test reports were awaited. He said a majority of the cases tested positive for dengue last month. The first dengue case was reported in January, one in July and two in August, while two cases were found positive this month, he said. Twenty cases were reported last month. Among those tested positive, the official said three residents of Jammu were outside the state. The official said there was no need to panic as all necessary measures have been taken to keep the situation under control. The dengue cases usually go up after the monsoon season as the main trigger for the disease is stagnant water, he said, and advised people not to allow water to stagnate around residential structures.

26 test positive for dengue in Jammu region

WION Speed News: Watch top international & national news of the morning, September 21, 2018

Anti-Muslim violence and an outbreak of dengue fever in Sri Lanka have led the government to slash its target for tourist arrivals this year after a record 2017.

Tourism Promotion Minister John Amaratunga said on Tuesday that 2.5 million arrivals were expected, down from an earlier estimate of 3 million, generating revenue of $4 billion.&nbsp;

He said a case of sexual assault against Dutch tourists in April in the town of Mirissa had also harmed the country's image abroad, though he could not quantify the impact of the incident in terms of visitor numbers.&nbsp;

In March, the government declared week-long a state of emergency in the central district of Kandy after rioting in which mosques and Muslim homes and businesses were destroyed.

Travel warnings for dengue are still in effect for Sri Lanka after an outbreak of the mosquito-borne virus killed more than 300 people there last year.

"When these things happen our targets get shifted... but we are working hard to attract more tourists," Amaratunga said.

Tourism accounts for nearly 5 per cent of the $87 billion economy and is a key main foreign exchange earner, along with the garment and tea industries, and remittances from Sri Lankans working abroad.

Year on year, tourist arrivals rose 24.1 per cent in March and by 17.1 per cent in the first quarter, according to government data.

Arrivals hit a record high of 2.1 million in 2017, and revenue from tourism an all-time peak of $3.63 billion.

Mirissa is a tourist hotspot in southern Sri Lanka famous for whale watching.&nbsp;

Tourism Promotion Minister John Amaratunga said on Tuesday that 2.5 million arrivals were expected, down from an earlier estimate of 3 million, generating revenue of $4 billion

Anti-Muslim violence and an outbreak of dengue fever in Sri Lanka have led the government to slash its target for tourist arrivals this year after a record 2017. Tourism Promotion Minister John Amaratunga said on Tuesday that 2.5 million arrivals were expected, down from an earlier estimate of 3 million, generating revenue of $4 billion. He said a case of sexual assault against Dutch tourists in April in the town of Mirissa had also harmed the country's image abroad, though he could not quantify the impact of the incident in terms of visitor numbers. In March, the government declared week-long a state of emergency in the central district of Kandy after rioting in which mosques and Muslim homes and businesses were destroyed. Travel warnings for dengue are still in effect for Sri Lanka after an outbreak of the mosquito-borne virus killed more than 300 people there last year. "When these things happen our targets get shifted... but we are working hard to attract more tourists," Amaratunga said. Tourism accounts for nearly 5 per cent of the $87 billion economy and is a key main foreign exchange earner, along with the garment and tea industries, and remittances from Sri Lankans working abroad. Year on year, tourist arrivals rose 24.1 per cent in March and by 17.1 per cent in the first quarter, according to government data. Arrivals hit a record high of 2.1 million in 2017, and revenue from tourism an all-time peak of $3.63 billion. Mirissa is a tourist hotspot in southern Sri Lanka famous for whale watching.

Sri Lanka, citing violence and dengue, cuts 2018 tourist arrivals target

*By:&nbsp;Olivier Telle

Human societies have seen a significant decrease in mortality from infectious diseases over the past century.

However, we must still struggle with ongoing pathologies we once thought were under control (cholera, tuberculosis, plague, etc.) as well as the new ones that have emerged over the last 30 years (HIV/AIDS, Ebola, dengue, West Nile virus, H1N1, etc.).

The vast scale of the global epidemics provoked by these viruses forces us to look more closely at the territories where they emerge.

In India, there has been an accelerated spread of dengue and chikungunya, both transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which is particularly well adapted to urbanised areas.

For example, the annual number of new dengue cases is estimated at more than 30 million, while the number of chikungunya cases is believed to have increased by 390 per cent over the last three years.

Recent estimates indicate that India is the country with the highest prevalence of these two diseases.

Cities, and disease, on the rise

The rise of these infectious diseases is often described in terms of biological processes, but they cannot be reduced to just this dimension.

A range of factors plays a role, in particular, increasing urbanisation and human mobility. The trains connecting Mumbai to its periphery move more than 7 million travellers a day, and New Delhi’s metro system caters to 2.5 million daily commuters.

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<h6>Daily life for millions of Mumbai’s inhabitants.</h6>

The growing attention paid to the epidemiology of these viruses can hence be clearly seen as a direct result of the urban transition taking place in India over the last 30 years.

Collaborative studies conducted by the CNRS, the Institute Pasteur and the National Institute of Malaria Research show that nearly 40 per cent of the population of New Delhi have been infected by the dengue virus at least once in their lifetime.

In addition, we were able to highlight an epidemiology of the virus. Because all parts of the city are now hyper-connected, emerging diseases such as dengue affect both privileged and more deprived areas, be they in the centre or peripheral or rural zones.

The social and spatial ubiquity of the disease demands a reevaluation of the geographical models that we use to understand public health problems, as no one knows how, or even where, to counter these diseases that affect not just countries such as India, but the entire planet.

<img alt="file-20180312-30969-1v7gdg5_0.png" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="257" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/file-20180312-30969-1v7gdg5_0.png" width="754" />

<h6>Density of dengue cases recorded in New Delhi in 2008, 2009 and 2010 (Telle et al., 2016). Olivier Telle, Author provided.</h6>

While urban development is the matrix for emerging infectious diseases, one also expects these territories to be resilient to these new viruses, with better communication, sanitation and healthcare, among other attributes. But they do not seem to have been able to adapt: not only do the pathogens continue to spread, but they also emerge and spread more quickly.

How to tackle an invisible disease

The problem of managing these diseases arises along with the practices that have led to this lack of resilience. What we mainly find is an inequality in disease management, particularly in large cities and the zones between them.

In New Delhi, more than 35 hospitals record the number of patients suffering from dengue or chikungunya. Based on the data compiled, New Delhi is officially the most affected city in India due to higher numbers of hospitals that register the diseases. Because of the careful record-keeping, the numbers are seven times higher than in Mumbai or Chennai, which – officially at least – are little affected.

New Delhi’s monitoring network functions most efficiently at the city’s core, and thus infectious diseases are far better managed there than in peripheral municipalities, which are nonetheless an integral part of the metropolitan fabric. Despite the fact that 40 per cent of the urban population lives in towns with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants, small- and medium-size towns are excluded from this monitoring system.

Territories and infectious diseases are thus caught in a sort of “local globalisation” that requires us to question the concepts of borders, mobility and a spread of the specific urban model.

This process works against an effective management of epidemics: the more widespread diseases become, the more fragmented their management, and the greater their dependence on national, regional and urban health policies.

Adaptability and a reduction of inequalities

At present, the question of the management of infectious diseases is relatively absent in health/urban studies, all the more so when they are approached from a municipal perspective.

While local municipalities are at the forefront of efforts to contain the spread of infectious diseases, they are largely ignored by scientists and international organisations when it comes to adopting effective solutions.

While the emergence of these new diseases is the result of complex phenomena – including the rise in local and international mobility, accelerating climate change and the emergence of new viruses – the resilience of the territories lies precisely in their ability to maintain a measure of spatial and social equity.

Indeed, dispersed management efforts inexorably lead to these viruses spreading locally, regionally and internationally, even in what should be less-vulnerable spaces. The main challenge for India, and all the countries that face these risks, is thus to make the diseases that are currently invisible more visible where they exist. At the international level, the only way to do this is through sustainable cooperation.

Innovating with the cities

The other challenge is scientific. After having studied all the factors that affect the disease – from a pluridisciplinary perspective, necessarily – methods to contain them need to be developed that take into account the complexity of the cities. In particular, it is impossible to act everywhere in megalopolises.

<ul>
	<li>In India, an emerging project associating virologists, entomologists, geographers and political scientists, supported by the CNRS, the Centre for Policy Research and NIMR proposes a twofold action plan.</li>
	<li>First, suggest and develop innovative methods to control mosquitoes that can be implemented by municipalities.</li>
</ul>

Second, using big data, analyse the mobility patterns of millions of citizens and comparing them with the spread of viruses, and thus identify the spaces that need to be monitored. By closely targeting such systems, they may well have an impact beyond the local level. Nonetheless, containment only seems viable in the short term.

To control these diseases in a more sustainable manner, the health of the inhabitants has to become a key factor in urban development. This involves reforming the management of diseases, and hence of urban centres, developing more equitable urban infrastructures, and most of all, developing inclusive cities. In short, investments are required.

However, if the task is important, new approaches and new programmes – for example, smart cities or sustainable towns – may be a means of better containing these epidemics.

It is essential to ensure that these programmes do not remain concentrated in the most privileged areas, as they will have only a limited impact. These epidemics are a scourge, but also an opportunity: in a context where these infectious diseases do not recognise administrative frontiers, much less social ones, they may finally have a positive impact on urban development and encourage the development of more inclusive cities

*Olivier Telle is a Research scientist at CSH, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS)

(This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/emerging-infectious-diseases-in-india-the-scourge-that-could-boost-urban-development-95076">original article</a>.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Nearly 40 per cent of the population of New Delhi have been infected by the dengue virus at least once in their lifetime

*By: Olivier Telle Human societies have seen a significant decrease in mortality from infectious diseases over the past century. However, we must still struggle with ongoing pathologies we once thought were under control (cholera, tuberculosis, plague, etc.) as well as the new ones that have emerged over the last 30 years (HIV/AIDS, Ebola, dengue, West Nile virus, H1N1, etc.). The vast scale of the global epidemics provoked by these viruses forces us to look more closely at the territories where they emerge. In India, there has been an accelerated spread of dengue and chikungunya, both transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, which is particularly well adapted to urbanised areas. For example, the annual number of new dengue cases is estimated at more than 30 million, while the number of chikungunya cases is believed to have increased by 390 per cent over the last three years. Recent estimates indicate that India is the country with the highest prevalence of these two diseases. Cities, and disease, on the rise The rise of these infectious diseases is often described in terms of biological processes, but they cannot be reduced to just this dimension. A range of factors plays a role, in particular, increasing urbanisation and human mobility. The trains connecting Mumbai to its periphery move more than 7 million travellers a day, and New Delhi’s metro system caters to 2.5 million daily commuters. × Daily life for millions of Mumbai’s inhabitants. The growing attention paid to the epidemiology of these viruses can hence be clearly seen as a direct result of the urban transition taking place in India over the last 30 years. Collaborative studies conducted by the CNRS, the Institute Pasteur and the National Institute of Malaria Research show that nearly 40 per cent of the population of New Delhi have been infected by the dengue virus at least once in their lifetime. In addition, we were able to highlight an epidemiology of the virus. Because all parts of the city are now hyper-connected, emerging diseases such as dengue affect both privileged and more deprived areas, be they in the centre or peripheral or rural zones. The social and spatial ubiquity of the disease demands a reevaluation of the geographical models that we use to understand public health problems, as no one knows how, or even where, to counter these diseases that affect not just countries such as India, but the entire planet. Density of dengue cases recorded in New Delhi in 2008, 2009 and 2010 (Telle et al., 2016). Olivier Telle, Author provided. While urban development is the matrix for emerging infectious diseases, one also expects these territories to be resilient to these new viruses, with better communication, sanitation and healthcare, among other attributes. But they do not seem to have been able to adapt: not only do the pathogens continue to spread, but they also emerge and spread more quickly. How to tackle an invisible disease The problem of managing these diseases arises along with the practices that have led to this lack of resilience. What we mainly find is an inequality in disease management, particularly in large cities and the zones between them. In New Delhi, more than 35 hospitals record the number of patients suffering from dengue or chikungunya. Based on the data compiled, New Delhi is officially the most affected city in India due to higher numbers of hospitals that register the diseases. Because of the careful record-keeping, the numbers are seven times higher than in Mumbai or Chennai, which – officially at least – are little affected. New Delhi’s monitoring network functions most efficiently at the city’s core, and thus infectious diseases are far better managed there than in peripheral municipalities, which are nonetheless an integral part of the metropolitan fabric. Despite the fact that 40 per cent of the urban population lives in towns with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants, small- and medium-size towns are excluded from this monitoring system. Territories and infectious diseases are thus caught in a sort of “local globalisation” that requires us to question the concepts of borders, mobility and a spread of the specific urban model. This process works against an effective management of epidemics: the more widespread diseases become, the more fragmented their management, and the greater their dependence on national, regional and urban health policies. Adaptability and a reduction of inequalities At present, the question of the management of infectious diseases is relatively absent in health/urban studies, all the more so when they are approached from a municipal perspective. While local municipalities are at the forefront of efforts to contain the spread of infectious diseases, they are largely ignored by scientists and international organisations when it comes to adopting effective solutions. While the emergence of these new diseases is the result of complex phenomena – including the rise in local and international mobility, accelerating climate change and the emergence of new viruses – the resilience of the territories lies precisely in their ability to maintain a measure of spatial and social equity. Indeed, dispersed management efforts inexorably lead to these viruses spreading locally, regionally and internationally, even in what should be less-vulnerable spaces. The main challenge for India, and all the countries that face these risks, is thus to make the diseases that are currently invisible more visible where they exist. At the international level, the only way to do this is through sustainable cooperation. Innovating with the cities The other challenge is scientific. After having studied all the factors that affect the disease – from a pluridisciplinary perspective, necessarily – methods to contain them need to be developed that take into account the complexity of the cities. In particular, it is impossible to act everywhere in megalopolises. In India, an emerging project associating virologists, entomologists, geographers and political scientists, supported by the CNRS, the Centre for Policy Research and NIMR proposes a twofold action plan. First, suggest and develop innovative methods to control mosquitoes that can be implemented by municipalities. Second, using big data, analyse the mobility patterns of millions of citizens and comparing them with the spread of viruses, and thus identify the spaces that need to be monitored. By closely targeting such systems, they may well have an impact beyond the local level. Nonetheless, containment only seems viable in the short term. To control these diseases in a more sustainable manner, the health of the inhabitants has to become a key factor in urban development. This involves reforming the management of diseases, and hence of urban centres, developing more equitable urban infrastructures, and most of all, developing inclusive cities. In short, investments are required. However, if the task is important, new approaches and new programmes – for example, smart cities or sustainable towns – may be a means of better containing these epidemics. It is essential to ensure that these programmes do not remain concentrated in the most privileged areas, as they will have only a limited impact. These epidemics are a scourge, but also an opportunity: in a context where these infectious diseases do not recognise administrative frontiers, much less social ones, they may finally have a positive impact on urban development and encourage the development of more inclusive cities *Olivier Telle is a Research scientist at CSH, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Emerging infectious diseases in India — the scourge that could boost urban development

The&nbsp;Siliguri&nbsp;Municipal Corporation&nbsp;(SMC) has begun using a drone&nbsp;to fight dengue in the city.

The drone, made by Rajiv Ghosh, the 17-year-old son of a tea seller, has been pressed into action to take pictures of stagnant water on the terraces of the city&#39;s buildings.&nbsp;

&quot;We are conducting a trial run for a month. We will see how fruitful it is. After this many states are asking me about the project over dengue plan,&quot; Ashoke Bhattacharjee, the mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation said,

Rajiv is a class XI Arts student but ironically has an interest in science. He is currently studying at Margaret High School, Pradhan Nagar, Siliguri.

He has been working on the idea since January.

&quot;Last year, there was a major dengue problem in Siliguri. It is very difficult to inspect the presence of stagnant water or dengue larvae in high rise buildings,&quot; he said.

&quot;Drone can help gather aerial footage to keep a check on areas that might be possible breeding spots,&quot; he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to news reports, the drone&nbsp;can fly a thousand metres high but its flight will be restricted to 200 metres due to security reasons.

According to the Health Department report of 2017, some 1,287 were infected with dengue with four losing their lives.

(With inputs from ANI)

The 17-year-old student, Rajiv Ghosh, is the son of a tea seller

The Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) has begun using a drone to fight dengue in the city. The drone, made by Rajiv Ghosh, the 17-year-old son of a tea seller, has been pressed into action to take pictures of stagnant water on the terraces of the city's buildings. "We are conducting a trial run for a month. We will see how fruitful it is. After this many states are asking me about the project over dengue plan," Ashoke Bhattacharjee, the mayor of Siliguri Municipal Corporation said, Rajiv is a class XI Arts student but ironically has an interest in science. He is currently studying at Margaret High School, Pradhan Nagar, Siliguri. He has been working on the idea since January. "Last year, there was a major dengue problem in Siliguri. It is very difficult to inspect the presence of stagnant water or dengue larvae in high rise buildings," he said. "Drone can help gather aerial footage to keep a check on areas that might be possible breeding spots," he added. According to news reports, the drone can fly a thousand metres high but its flight will be restricted to 200 metres due to security reasons. According to the Health Department report of 2017, some 1,287 were infected with dengue with four losing their lives. (With inputs from ANI)

Siliguri employs drone made by class XI student to combat dengue

The Union Health ministry today took cognisance of the Fortis Gurugram dengue death case and said that negligence will not be tolerated.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/24000-fee-to-treat-dengue-child-dies-hospital-denies-allegations-6849">The father of a seven-year-old girl, who died of dengue in Gurugram&#39;s Fortis Hospital</a>, on Wednesday said the hospital has offered a total of Rs 35,37,889 for assuring to stop his social media campaign and any legal action against them.

Speaking to ANI, Jayant Singh said, &quot;Senior members of Fortis had met me and offered me a cheque worth Rs 10,37,889 refunding the entire amount. They also said they will be offering me Rs 25 lakh cash on top of this, saying I will have to sign and enter into a legal agreement assuring to stop my social media campaign, or going to court and taking legal action against them.&quot;

Earlier in the day, a committee formed by the Haryana Government found criminal negligence on the part of the hospital, causing the death of a seven-year-old girl suffering from dengue.

The statement came after a committee of senior doctors, formed by the state government, gave its recommendations.

The committee also alleged several irregularities, including refusal of appropriate ambulance service to the patient, not following leave against medical advice (LAMA) protocol, and overcharging.

&quot;The girl was on ventilator in the hospital, but she was provided with an ordinary ambulance. The ventilator system was withdrawn and an ambu bag was also not provided. This eventually led to the girl&#39;s death,&quot; Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij said.

The Haryana Government will now file an FIR against the Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for death due to negligence and will also ask the Medical Council of India (MCI) to take an action against the hospital which may include cancelling of its licence.

The committee also found the Fortis Hospital guilty of overcharging for medicines and platelets and has sent a notice for cancellation of its blood bank&#39;s licence.

It was also found by the committee that the hospital did not provide 20 per cent RBD to the patient&#39;s family, violating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA).

Parents of the seven-year-old girl, who died on November 21 of Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), had alleged the Fortis Hospital for charging Rs 16 lakh for the 15-day treatment.

The hospital, however, had denied the allegations.&nbsp;

The father of the seven-year-old girl on Wednesday said the hospital has offered a total of Rs 35,37,889 for assuring he would stop his social media campaign and any legal action against them

The Union Health ministry today took cognisance of the Fortis Gurugram dengue death case and said that negligence will not be tolerated. The father of a seven-year-old girl, who died of dengue in Gurugram's Fortis Hospital, on Wednesday said the hospital has offered a total of Rs 35,37,889 for assuring to stop his social media campaign and any legal action against them. Speaking to ANI, Jayant Singh said, "Senior members of Fortis had met me and offered me a cheque worth Rs 10,37,889 refunding the entire amount. They also said they will be offering me Rs 25 lakh cash on top of this, saying I will have to sign and enter into a legal agreement assuring to stop my social media campaign, or going to court and taking legal action against them." Earlier in the day, a committee formed by the Haryana Government found criminal negligence on the part of the hospital, causing the death of a seven-year-old girl suffering from dengue. The statement came after a committee of senior doctors, formed by the state government, gave its recommendations. The committee also alleged several irregularities, including refusal of appropriate ambulance service to the patient, not following leave against medical advice (LAMA) protocol, and overcharging. "The girl was on ventilator in the hospital, but she was provided with an ordinary ambulance. The ventilator system was withdrawn and an ambu bag was also not provided. This eventually led to the girl's death," Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij said. The Haryana Government will now file an FIR against the Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for death due to negligence and will also ask the Medical Council of India (MCI) to take an action against the hospital which may include cancelling of its licence. The committee also found the Fortis Hospital guilty of overcharging for medicines and platelets and has sent a notice for cancellation of its blood bank's licence. It was also found by the committee that the hospital did not provide 20 per cent RBD to the patient's family, violating a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA). Parents of the seven-year-old girl, who died on November 21 of Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), had alleged the Fortis Hospital for charging Rs 16 lakh for the 15-day treatment. The hospital, however, had denied the allegations.

Health ministry takes cognisance of Fortis Gurugram dengue death case

At least 176 dengue cases were reported in the city last week, taking the total number of people affected by the vector-borne disease in the national capital this year to 9,072, according to a municipal report released today.

The numbers of malaria and chikungunya cases recorded this year, till December 2, stood at 1,132 and 917 respectively, the report said.

However, there is a decline in the numbers of these cases as the season for vector-borne diseases is coming to an end.

Of the 9,072 dengue cases this year, 4,645 patients belonged to Delhi, while 4,427 had come to the city from other states for treatment, the report read.

The mosquito-borne tropical disease had claimed its first victim in the city this year on August 1, when a 12-year-old boy died of dengue shock syndromes at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH).

Three more deaths were reported in October by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates the data for the entire city.

The civic body, however, is yet to acknowledge two fatalities due to dengue at the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital and the death of a boy at the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital due to the vector-borne disease.

According to the RML Hospital authorities, Shaurya Pratap Singh (7) had died on November 22, two days after he was admitted to the hospital, the latest dengue death to be reported from the national capital.

The number of dengue cases recorded in the city stood at 2,022 in October, while over 800 cases were reported last month, the report said.

Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between mid-July and November-end. This year, however, the disease had spread much earlier.

Dengue and chikungunya are caused by the aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in clear water. The female Anopheles mosquito, which causes malaria, breeds in both fresh and muddy water.

According to the SDMC, mosquito breeding was reported from 2,09,637 Delhi households till December 2.

The number of cases recorded in areas falling under the north, south and east Delhi municipal corporations stood at 704, 704 and 412 respectively. As many as 2,825 cases were recorded in areas not falling under the three corporations.

At least 21 dengue deaths were reported last year from various city hospitals, including nine at the AIIMS, though the official figure of the civic bodies was 10.

Seventeen deaths, suspected to be due to malaria, were also reported by the civic bodies last year.

At least 15 fatalities were reported last year from various city hospitals due to complications triggered by chikungunya, though the civic authorities kept the death tally at zero.

One of the worst chikungunya outbreaks in the national capital was in 2016 when 12,221 cases were reported till December 24. Of these, 9,749 were confirmed.

The numbers of malaria and chikungunya cases recorded this year, till December 2, stood at 1,132 and 917 respectively, the report said

At least 176 dengue cases were reported in the city last week, taking the total number of people affected by the vector-borne disease in the national capital this year to 9,072, according to a municipal report released today. The numbers of malaria and chikungunya cases recorded this year, till December 2, stood at 1,132 and 917 respectively, the report said. However, there is a decline in the numbers of these cases as the season for vector-borne diseases is coming to an end. Of the 9,072 dengue cases this year, 4,645 patients belonged to Delhi, while 4,427 had come to the city from other states for treatment, the report read. The mosquito-borne tropical disease had claimed its first victim in the city this year on August 1, when a 12-year-old boy died of dengue shock syndromes at the Sir Ganga Ram Hospital (SGRH). Three more deaths were reported in October by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), which tabulates the data for the entire city. The civic body, however, is yet to acknowledge two fatalities due to dengue at the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital and the death of a boy at the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital due to the vector-borne disease. According to the RML Hospital authorities, Shaurya Pratap Singh (7) had died on November 22, two days after he was admitted to the hospital, the latest dengue death to be reported from the national capital. The number of dengue cases recorded in the city stood at 2,022 in October, while over 800 cases were reported last month, the report said. Cases of vector-borne diseases are usually reported between mid-July and November-end. This year, however, the disease had spread much earlier. Dengue and chikungunya are caused by the aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in clear water. The female Anopheles mosquito, which causes malaria, breeds in both fresh and muddy water. According to the SDMC, mosquito breeding was reported from 2,09,637 Delhi households till December 2. The number of cases recorded in areas falling under the north, south and east Delhi municipal corporations stood at 704, 704 and 412 respectively. As many as 2,825 cases were recorded in areas not falling under the three corporations. At least 21 dengue deaths were reported last year from various city hospitals, including nine at the AIIMS, though the official figure of the civic bodies was 10. Seventeen deaths, suspected to be due to malaria, were also reported by the civic bodies last year. At least 15 fatalities were reported last year from various city hospitals due to complications triggered by chikungunya, though the civic authorities kept the death tally at zero. One of the worst chikungunya outbreaks in the national capital was in 2016 when 12,221 cases were reported till December 24. Of these, 9,749 were confirmed.

176 dengue cases reported in Delhi last week, 9,072 this year

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