The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a unique campaign named ‘Bhag Machchar Bhag’ to raise awareness about mosquito control measures amid an unexpected surge in mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue. The campaign was launched in response to a significant increase in dengue, leptospirosis, and H1N1 cases in the first half of July, compared to June 2024, according to the BMC’s monsoon report released on Tuesday.
Dengue cases have particularly seen a sharp rise, with 165 cases reported between July 1 and July 15, up from 93 in June. Similarly, leptospirosis cases increased from 28 in June to 52 in July, and H1N1 flu cases surged from 10 in June to 53 in the first half of July.
To tackle this alarming trend, the BMC’s ‘Bhag Machchar Bhag’ campaign aims to promote mosquito control measures through short films and messages by celebrities from the Marathi and Hindi entertainment industries. The BMC is urging residents to eliminate mosquito breeding sites, use mosquito nets, and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites.
Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, a senior consultant in internal medicine at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, highlighted the importance of vaccinations in combating the rise in dengue and H1N1 cases. “There are vaccines available for both H1N1 and pneumonia. Taking these vaccines will help ward off these diseases, which typically present with high-grade fever, body pain, and chills,” she said.
Dr. Agarwal also emphasized the need for citizens over 60 years old, especially those with diabetes and other comorbidities, to get the pneumonia vaccine. She warned that dengue cases are expected to rise further in August and September, underscoring the urgency of preventive measures.
