Dengue cases stabilise in Chennai as hotspots reduce from 590 to 300, says Health Minister

Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj on Thursday said dengue cases had stabilised in Chennai, and urged residents to destroy mosquito breeding sources on their premises ahead of the Northeast monsoon.

“The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has collected a total of ₹7.5 lakh in fines from owners of buildings where mosquito breeding sources were found in the last two months. Large establishments have been penalised. The fine is ₹10,000 for the first violation and increases with each subsequent violation by the same person,” he added.

“On an average, we conduct 1,000 medical camps to screen fever cases across the State every day. A total of 21,655 dengue cases has been reported in the State from January 1 to October 7. Ten people have died due to dengue during the same period. In Chennai, dengue cases have gradually reduced and have stabilised. There is a possibility of another increase in dengue cases after this monsoon. So, we have to be cautious. We will appoint more workers for mosquito control,” the Minister said.

Currently, 3,700 workers have been appointed for mosquito control in the GCC. The workers must visit the homes every seven days.

Dengue hotspots in Chennai have decreased from 590 to 300. In Tamil Nadu, 301 dengue cases are being treated in hospitals.

Answering questions about the alleged lack of transparency regarding the health condition of Kolathur MLA V.S. Babu, the Minister said the treatment protocol were reviewed by a team of doctors from the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.