Bhatkal: Intermittent rain has created conducive conditions for a surge in mosquito population, leading to a rapid spread of dengue fever. Given the prevailing trend of seeking treatment in private facilities rather than government hospitals, precise figures for dengue cases in Bhatkal are challenging to ascertain. However, information from various sources suggests that approximately 50 individuals are currently afflicted with dengue, with 19 of them in critical condition and under hospital care.

According to Mohammad Ashraf Sada, an active member of Bhatkal Muslim Jamaat in Mangalore, over 25 patients previously diagnosed with dengue fever have been discharged from various hospitals in Mangalore. Presently, 15 patients are receiving treatment in different hospitals across Mangalore, distributed as follows: four in AJ Hospital, four in Highland Hospital, three in Unity Hospital, two in KMC Hospital, and one each in Athena and Father Muller Hospitals.

Dr. Savitha Kamath, the Medical Officer in Bhatkal, reports that 12 dengue fever patients are receiving treatment at the Bhatkal Government Hospital, of whom two are admitted in the hospital in severe condition. Additionally, the government hospital is tending to eight H1N1 patients, unfortunately, one of whom succumbed to the illness two days ago. Furthermore, six patients in the same facility are battling Leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease.

بھٹکل میں پھیل رہا ہے ڈینگی بخار؛ کئی مریضوں کا مینگلوراسپتالوں میں ہورہا ہے علاج
Abul Ala Barmawar, in-charge of Bhatkal Welfare Hospital, notes that a significant number of patients have been admitted with fever, among whom several have tested positive for dengue. Presently, two patients with dengue fever are receiving treatment in the hospital, with ongoing care. While some patients have recuperated and been discharged, others have been transferred to hospitals in Mangalore. It is worth mentioning that dengue patients can also seek admission in other private hospitals in Bhatkal. Moreover, there is a possibility that a few patients from Bhatkal may opt for treatment in hospitals in Kundapur and Manipal.

The residents of Bhatkal are deeply concerned about the rapid spread of dengue fever, particularly in the historic quarters of the city. A significant portion of the patients admitted to Mangalore hospitals hail from these older mohallas, notably Jamia Street, Mushma Street, Qazia Street, Siddique Street, and Khalifa Street.

Local residents emphasize that dengue fever, transmitted by specific mosquito species, poses a greater threat than the COVID-19 virus. During the COVID-19 pandemic, various social organizations in Bhatkal played a proactive role in mitigating the crisis. These organizations are now urged to lead efforts in eradicating dengue fever. Locals recommend that longstanding community organizations like Majlise Islah wo Tanzeem and Rabita Society establish medical teams. They should utilize local sports centers to systematically identify fever cases in households and provide them with free medical care.

It is notable that a majority of individuals lack the financial means for medical treatment. Consequently, they are compelled to seek loans to transport dengue patients to hospitals in Mangalore for treatment of this potentially fatal disease.

Efforts to control mosquito populations have been notably absent in Bhatkal for several years. This has resulted in widespread infestation across the city. The populace implores the taluka administration to institute comprehensive measures for mosquito eradication. Medical teams should be dispatched to affected areas, and relief should be extended to affected residents.

For patients transferred from Bhatkal to Mangalore, the Mangalore Jamaat offers valuable guidance and support. Bhatkal Muslim Jamaat Mangalore is dedicated to assisting these patients. Jamaat President SM Arshad affirms that volunteers are always prepared to serve the community. The medical committee, led by Saud Mohtisham, along with Mohammad Ashraf Sada, Maulavi Dawood Khalifa, Fahad Shabandri, Ghufran Ahmad DF, Mohammed Hussain Kharuri, and Ashfaq Mohtisham, stands ready to provide their services. For inquiries, please contact Ashraf Sada at mobile number 9742530050.