By Dr Hari Gopinath, Consultant Paediatrician, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Kompally

Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) pose a significant public health challenge in India, with millions affected annually. The primary vectors include mosquitoes, ticks, and sandflies, transmitting diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and leishmaniosis (Kala Azar or Black Disease). Recent data from 2024 highlights the increasing incidence of these diseases, emphasizing the need for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

In 2024, India reported approximately 1.2 million cases of malaria, a 15% increase compared to the previous year. In Hyderabad alone, there were around 30,000 cases of dengue, marking a 20% rise. Additionally, chikungunya cases reached 15,000, while leishmaniasis affected around 5,000 individuals, predominantly in rural areas.

These figures indicate a worrying trend, exacerbated by urbanization, climate change, and inadequate sanitation. In Hyderabad, the monsoon season has led to increased vector populations, further elevating disease transmission risks.

Preventive measures are crucial in combating vector-borne diseases. Here are some recommended precautions:

Eliminate Breeding Sites: Regularly clean and remove stagnant water from containers, pots, and discarded tyres to prevent mosquito breeding.

Use Insect Repellents: Apply DEET-based repellents (safe above two months of age) on exposed skin, particularly during early morning and late evening when mosquitoes are most active.

Wear Protective Clothing: Don light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing to minimize skin exposure to mosquito bites.

Install Screens: Use window and door screens to keep insects out of living spaces.

Indoor Spraying: Utilize indoor residual spraying with approved insecticides to kill adult mosquitoes.

Community Awareness: Engage in community clean-up drives and awareness programs to educate others about preventive measures.

Treatment for vector-borne diseases varies based on the specific illness. Here are some common approaches:

Malaria: Antimalarial medications such as artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are effective. Severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous medication. The endemicity of malaria in our country is to be reiterated so as to make a timely diagnosis.

Dengue: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Supportive care, including hydration and pain relief with acetaminophen, is crucial. Hospitalization may be required for severe cases. It is important to have a basic awareness of the warning symptoms of dengue, so as to attend the health care facility in time and to avoid unnecessary phobia associated with the diagnosis of dengue.

Chikungunya: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms through pain relievers and hydration. Most patients recover within a week, although some may experience prolonged joint pain.

Leishmaniasis: Treatment involves antiparasitic medications such as sodium stibogluconate or liposomal amphotericin B, depending on the disease form and severity.

Vector-borne diseases continue to be a major health concern in India, particularly in urban areas like Hyderabad. With the rise in reported cases in 2024, proactive measures for prevention and effective treatment options are more essential than ever. Community engagement, awareness, and personal responsibility can significantly contribute to reducing the incidence of these diseases and protecting public health. Awareness  is very important to also remove unnecessary fears associated with these VBD and to enable the public to take a right decision along with the health care givers and to ensure better outcomes for the quality of health.