Srinagar : Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing a rise in dengue cases this year, with 97 cases confirmed so far.

State Malariologist Dr D. J. Raina informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that although the number of cases is increasing, the situation remains under control.

He urged the public to take preventive measures to curb the spread of this vector-borne disease, saying that proactive prevention is crucial due to the absence of a dengue vaccine.

Dr Raina said that authorities are implementing effective measures to minimise the spread of dengue and urged people to remain vigilant without panicking.

Medical professionals have advised the public to use mosquito repellents and wear long-sleeved shirts to protect themselves from mosquito bites, as these mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which accumulates during the monsoon season.

“The best way to prevent dengue fever is to eliminate areas of stagnant water that serve as mosquito breeding sites, whether at home, school, workplaces, or nearby areas, and to avoid mosquito bites,” doctors advised.

They said the mosquitoes that spread dengue are primarily active during the day and recommended covering as much of the body as possible, using mosquito nets during daytime sleep and spraying nets with insect repellents.

Common symptoms of dengue include fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle, joint or bone pain, rash, nausea and vomiting.

The advisory also warns that anyone experiencing stomach or belly pain, tenderness, vomiting (at least three times in 24 hours), bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, blood in the stool, or feeling tired, restless or irritable should consult a doctor. These mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, and people should wear clothes that minimise skin exposure during these times, it states.

Last year, Jammu & Kashmir reported around 6,403 dengue cases, while 2022 saw a record high of 8,269 cases with 18 fatalities.