Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, specifically the dengue virus (DENV), mainly transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It brings on flu-like symptoms such as high fever, intense headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea, and skin rashes. In more severe instances, it can escalate to Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), both of which can be life-threatening.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that dengue cases have surged 30-fold globally over the past 50 years, with India bearing a significant share of the disease burden in South-East Asia.
Dengue Situation in India (2019–2024)
According to data from the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), India has seen significant ups and downs in dengue cases from 2019 to 2024. The lowest number of cases was recorded in 2020 (44,585), likely due to COVID-19 lockdowns. However, dengue cases rose sharply in the following years, reaching a peak of 289,235 cases and 485 deaths in 2023—the highest since 2019. Although early 2024 shows a slight decline with 233,519 cases and 297 deaths, dengue continues to be a serious public health challenge across the country.
Why Do We Observe National Dengue Day?
Every year on May 16, India marks National Dengue Day, an important occasion dedicated to raising awareness, boosting community involvement, and highlighting the crucial need for dengue fever prevention and control. As dengue remains a significant public health concern, particularly in tropical and sub-tropical areas, this year’s theme — “Unite to Eradicate!” — calls on individuals, communities, and governments to join forces for a future free of dengue.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, designated May 16 as National Dengue Day to:
- Raise awareness about dengue fever and how to prevent it.
- Encourage prompt reporting and early detection.
- Foster community involvement in mosquito control efforts.
- Strengthen the government's strategies and readiness.
National Dengue Day is more than just a day for sharing information; it’s a rallying cry for action. It serves as a timely reminder before the monsoon season, which typically sees a rise in dengue cases due to stagnant water and increased mosquito breeding.
Preventive Measures
Tackling a dengue outbreak isn't the responsibility of just one person. It calls for collective action and cooperation among individuals, communities, and institutions to effectively combat and prevent the spread of dengue.
Here are simple ways we can unite to fight against dengue:
Individual Actions
Clean and scrub water containers every week and change the water regularly. Don’t let water collect in coolers, rooftop tanks, or flowerpots. Keep your home and surroundings clean, and maintain personal hygiene. Use mosquito repellents, wear full-sleeved clothes, and sleep under mosquito nets to avoid bites.
Community Efforts
Organize neighbourhood cleanliness drives and conduct fogging to kill mosquitoes. Spread awareness through posters, meetings, and public announcements about how to prevent dengue.
Early Detection & Treatment
Healthcare workers should stay alert for dengue symptoms like high fever and body pain, especially during the rainy season. People should not ignore symptoms and should seek medical help early.
Education & Youth Involvement
Schools should teach students about dengue prevention and healthy habits. Children can help spread awareness at home and in their community.
Working Together
Local authorities, NGOs, companies, and housing societies should work as a team to stop mosquito breeding. This includes fixing leaks, covering water tanks, and using larvicide in stagnant water areas.
Other Initiatives by the Government in India
The National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) has been actively working towards these initiatives to control dengue as part of the Indian Government's initiative. Some of these initiatives under NVBDCP are:
- Conduct Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) that tracks data in real time
- Practice larval source reduction and space spraying (fogging) in urban areas
- Conduct IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) campaigns through schools, and mass media, including TV, radio, and social media.
Conclusion
As we observe National Dengue Day, it's a reminder that dengue remains a serious and growing threat to public health in India. Despite advancements in awareness and control efforts, the rise in cases—especially in recent years—highlights the urgent need for stronger prevention strategies, timely diagnosis, and community participation. Simple actions like preventing mosquito breeding, using repellents, and seeking early medical help can make a big difference. Let this day inspire collective action to reduce the burden of dengue and protect our communities from this preventable disease.
