Dengue cases surge in Bengaluru: Know the symptoms before it’s too late

Bengaluru on High Alert
The city of Bengaluru is witnessing a troubling rise in dengue cases. In July alone, 442 cases were reported, including 69 in the last week. Since the beginning of the year, the city has logged a total of 1,685 dengue cases, according to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). In response, BBMP Chief Commissioner Maheswar Rao has urged officials to intensify preventive actions across the city.
To combat the outbreak, civic authorities have been instructed to conduct fogging operations, use chemical sprays to eliminate mosquito larvae, and install OV (Ovitrap) traps in residential areas. Additionally, public awareness campaigns are being ramped up to educate citizens on how to stay safe and recognize early symptoms of dengue.
What is Dengue?
Dengue, also known as break-bone fever, is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause mild to severe illness. It spreads primarily through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly half of the global population is at risk, with an estimated 100–400 million infections every year.
Key Symptoms of Dengue You Should Never Ignore
While many people infected with dengue may remain asymptomatic, those who do develop symptoms should take immediate medical attention. Common signs include:
High fever (40°C/104°F)
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Muscle and joint pain
Nausea and vomiting
Swollen glands
Skin rash
Severe Dengue: Warning Signs That Need Urgent Medical Care
Some individuals may experience severe dengue, which can lead to life-threatening complications. Watch for these red flags:
Intense abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Rapid or difficult breathing
Bleeding gums or nose
Extreme fatigue or restlessness
Blood in vomit or stool
Constant thirst
Pale and cold skin
Overall weakness
If any of these symptoms occur, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care without delay.
Dengue Recovery Timeline
In most cases, recovery from dengue takes about 1 to 2 weeks. However, for those with severe symptoms, hospitalization may be necessary. Early diagnosis and supportive care significantly reduce the risk of serious complications.
How to Protect Yourself from Dengue Mosquito Bites
Prevention is the best defense against dengue. Here are practical steps you can take:
Use mosquito repellents regularly
Wear long-sleeved clothing and full-length pants
Sleep under mosquito nets, especially during the day
Keep water containers covered and clean them regularly
Avoid storing stagnant water around your home
Support fogging and larvicide spraying initiatives in your area
Install OV traps to reduce mosquito breeding
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
As dengue cases rise in Bengaluru, awareness and timely action are more important than ever. Know the symptoms, take preventive measures, and encourage your community to stay vigilant. Your safety and that of your loved ones depends on staying one step ahead of the bite.