Northeast Desk, 13th October: Meghalaya has reported a total of 44 confirmed cases of dengue, and one fatality has been attributed to the disease. These cases are primarily concentrated in the flatland regions of Garo Hills.
Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh has urged citizens not to panic, assuring them that the situation is being effectively managed. However, she emphasizes the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. Lyngdoh advises individuals with prolonged fever to visit the nearest testing center for proper evaluation and treatment.
On October 12, a total of 7 tests were conducted, with only 2 yielding positive results. The deceased individual was a male patient from West Garo Hills, who was brought to the hospital but, unfortunately, succumbed to dengue. Another individual lost their life due to a brain hemorrhage related to dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Lyngdoh has stated, “We have effectively contained the cases, providing appropriate treatment to those affected. We do not anticipate a surge in cases. From October 3 until yesterday, we recorded 44 cases, likely exacerbated by recent floods and heavy rainfall.”
The health department has issued alerts to all districts, instructing them to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). They are actively engaging with communities, dorbars, and other stakeholders. Medical block officers are instructed to promptly respond to identified cases to curb the further spread of dengue.