Rohit Shishodia
What with heavy rains in Mumbai and the danger of vector-borne diseases, doctors have advised patients to take preventive steps such as wearing full-sleeved clothes and using insect repellents.

According to data provided by BMC, in July, 8 dengue, 146 malaria, 467 gastro, 138 hepatitis and 21 cases of leptospirosis have been reported in different parts of the city.

SRV Mamata Hospital, Dombivli, has reported 2 dengue, 2 malaria, and 1 swine flu cases. The doctors say that the numbers are alarming.  

Dr. Nirmaldutta Thakur, General Physician, SRV Mamata Hospital said that with heavy and irregular rain, people can easily fall prey to dengue and malaria.

Dr Thakur said that in such situations, people need to take adequate precautions. These worrisome diseases can be prevented by avoiding stagnant water near the house, wearing full-sleeved clothes, and opting for insect repellents.

Dr. Vikrant Shah, Internal Medicine Expert, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, Mumbai, said that vector-borne infections including H1N1, dengue and malaria, have started sprouting as soon as monsoon has arrived in Mumbai.

Dr Shah added that most H1n1, dengue and malaria patients came with atypical symptoms. They represented with no fever, but throat irritation and acute breathlessness