Chennai, 16 September (H.S.):Health authorities have intensified fever surveillance and mosquito-control operations across Chennai following an increase in dengue and other viral infections during the first half of September.

More than 2,000 fever cases were reported in the city during the first 10 days of the month, of which 140 were confirmed as dengue. The rise has caused concern as intermittent rainfall and stagnant water could create favourable conditions for mosquito breeding.

In August, Chennai recorded nearly 4,500 fever cases, including 160 dengue infections. Surveillance data showed that Adyar, Anna Nagar and Valasaravakkam had reported a relatively higher number of dengue cases than other parts of the city.

The Greater Chennai Corporation has deployed nearly 3,700 mosquito-control workers across its 15 zones. Health teams are conducting house-to-house inspections, monitoring fever cases and removing possible mosquito-breeding sources.

Special attention is being given to vacant plots, construction sites, public institutions and residential premises where water could accumulate. Residents are being advised to empty and clean water containers regularly and ensure that overhead tanks and other storage facilities remain properly covered.

Private hospitals have been directed to submit daily reports on fever cases to help civic and health authorities identify clusters and take swift preventive measures.

Officials, however, said the increase in fever cases should not be interpreted as a dengue outbreak. Several seasonal viral infections are also circulating in the city and contributing to the rise in patients seeking treatment.

Doctors have reported cases of influenza A, rhinovirus and respiratory syncytial virus, particularly among children, elderly people and those with underlying health conditions.

Health officials have urged residents with persistent fever, severe headache, body pain, vomiting or unusual fatigue to seek medical attention without delay. They also cautioned people against self-medication and advised them to undergo appropriate tests if symptoms continued.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman