Palakkad, 22 June (H.S.):A 45-year-old Anganwadi worker from Perumatti in Chittur, Palakkad district, has died of dengue fever, marking the sixth dengue-related death reported in the district this year and raising fresh concerns over the spread of the mosquito-borne disease across the region.

The deceased has been identified as Geetha, a resident of Perumatti near Chittur. According to health officials, she had been suffering from fever for the past four days. Believing it to be a routine viral infection, she initially remained at home and did not seek specialised medical attention.

However, as her condition deteriorated and the fever became severe, she was taken to the Chittur Taluk Hospital for treatment. Medical examinations conducted at the hospital confirmed that she had contracted dengue fever. Despite efforts to treat her, she succumbed to the illness.

Health authorities said Geetha’s death is the sixth dengue fatality reported in Palakkad district so far this year. Alarmingly, four of these deaths have occurred during the current month alone, indicating a sharp rise in dengue cases and related complications. Two dengue deaths had already been recorded in the district during the previous month.

Officials noted that the Mannarkkad region had earlier emerged as a major hotspot for dengue infections in Palakkad. However, recent reports suggest that the disease is no longer confined to that area and is now spreading to several other parts of the district.

The latest death has prompted health authorities to intensify surveillance and preventive measures in vulnerable areas. Residents have been urged to eliminate stagnant water sources around their homes and workplaces, as these serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes that transmit dengue.

Health experts have also advised people to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, body pain, nausea, vomiting or unusual fatigue. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are considered crucial in preventing severe complications and fatalities.

With monsoon conditions favouring mosquito breeding, authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with disease-control efforts to contain the spread of dengue across the district.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman