Dengue Surge Grips Delhi-NCR: One Death, Hundreds Infected, Hospitals on High Alert

The Delhi-NCR region is on high alert after a Noida Authority general manager succumbed to dengue earlier this week. The official, who was admitted to a local hospital in critical condition, passed away due to multi-organ failure following a severe fever.

According to reports, the deceased had been hospitalized for three days, during which doctors confirmed dengue infection, a mosquito-borne viral illness that continues to threaten lives in India’s urban clusters every monsoon season.

NCR records alarming spike in dengue and malaria

• Health departments across Noida, Ghaziabad, and Delhi have reported a sharp rise in vector-borne diseases since September.
• Noida has logged 430 dengue cases and 169 malaria cases, marking a sharp rise of 110 infections in just two weeks.
• Ghaziabad has reported 178 dengue and 83 malaria cases so far.
• Officials note this is a significant increase from last year’s 580 dengue and 113 malaria cases.

District officials have directed hospitals and primary health centres to remain on standby with adequate isolation wards and blood platelet facilities. Intensive anti-larval drives, fogging, and door-to-door awareness campaigns are being carried out in affected areas.

“The rise in numbers also shows that more people are getting tested. Several hotspots have been identified, and inspections are underway to prevent mosquito breeding there,” said Stuti Kirti Verma, District Malaria Officer, Noida.

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What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is caused by four dengue viruses (DENV 1–4) that are spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, particularly Aedes aegypti. Most dengue cases are found in tropical and subtropical regions, including Asia, Africa, and South America. Other than from a woman to her fetus, it is not transmitted from one person to another.

Most people have only mild symptoms the first time they get dengue, but a second infection from a new strain can become life-threatening, with risks of bleeding or shock. Global estimates suggest over 400 million infections annually, though many cases remain undiagnosed or asymptomatic.

Signs to look out for:

The symptoms can last three to seven days and often start four to ten days following a mosquito bite.

Common signs include:

• High fever and body ache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Rashes across the body
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle, bone, or joint pain
• Stomach pain
• Nosebleeds or vomiting blood
• Extreme fatigue or irritability

Early identification and hydration are crucial since, after initial recovery, around 1 in 20 dengue patients may develop severe dengue, according to doctors.

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How to prevent dengue infection

The best protection against dengue is mosquito control and personal precaution. Health experts recommend:

• Use insect repellents with 20–30% DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients.
• Cover exposed skin, especially during early morning and evening hours.
• Remove stagnant water from flower pots, buckets, and rooftops.
• Keep doors and windows closed or use mosquito screens.
• Use mosquito nets at night, particularly in affected areas.
• Pregnant women are advised to avoid travel to dengue-prone regions when possible.

Authorities urge public cooperation

Delhi-NCR is still at high risk for dengue epidemics due to the region's rising temperatures and post-monsoon humidity. Health authorities are urging residents to report symptoms early, maintain clean surroundings, and avoid self-medication.

“Early medical attention can save lives. Dengue is preventable if communities actively participate in vector control,” a senior Noida health officer said.

Disclaimer: This article is based on verified health department data and expert inputs as of October 2025. Readers are advised to follow official health advisories and seek medical attention in case of symptoms.