Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Goa witnessed a significant rise in confirmed dengue infections in August, with 49 cases recorded across the State, official health data shows. South Goa reported the overwhelming majority with 46 cases, while North Goa recorded three.
The State also registered 886 suspected dengue cases during the month. South Goa accounted for 541 of these suspected infections, compared to 345 in North Goa, highlighting continued transmission concerns during the ongoing monsoon.
The August numbers represent a substantial increase in confirmed cases over July, when only seven dengue infections were confirmed, all in South Goa. Suspected cases, however, were already high at 882 during the same period.
Dengue concerns had surfaced earlier following infections reported among personnel at government institutions. Several police personnel at the Margao police station were affected in July, while cases were also reported among fire service personnel in Porvorim.
Despite the rise in reported infections, health authorities have maintained that there is no cause for alarm at present. Officials have pointed out that many cases continue to remain classified as suspected until laboratory testing confirms the infection.
With the monsoon creating favourable conditions for mosquito breeding, authorities are focusing on eliminating potential breeding sites. Construction areas with stagnant water, uncovered storage containers and inadequate sanitation are among the locations being monitored.
The Directorate of Health Services has stepped up surveillance, fumigation and awareness activities in areas identified as vulnerable and has urged residents and establishments to regularly check their surroundings and remove stagnant water.
