This year, dengue cases in the Tricity have dropped sharply. From January to October so far, just over 160 cases have been reported, a 95% decrease compared to 3,173 cases last year. This is the lowest figure recorded in the last four years. According to data from the Health Department, only 12 cases have been reported in Chandigarh so far, while in 2024, the number was 349. Dengue is usually spread by the Aedes mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water.
Every year, cases usually rise during and after the monsoon season. But this year, the situation has been very different. Experts believe that the change in rainfall patterns and the preventive measures taken by the Health Department are the main reasons for this steep decline. Between June and September 2025, the city received 836 mm rainfall, compared to 776.2 mm last year. Despite the heavier rain, dengue cases did not increase — showing that the administration successfully prevented water stagnation and destroyed mosquito breeding sites.
“There are many cases in Haryana and Punjab, so we should not be off guard. We really can’t attribute one reason; it can be the weather and rain pattern change, the fact that rainfall was heavy, water flowed, and did not collect and stand, as it usually does when slight rainfall continues for days. September and October are peak months for dengue, but till the temperature drops, we cannot be complacent. This year, the breeding is less, and sometimes there is a mutant variation in the mutant, so we urge residents to remain cautious. We take extensive preventive measures every year, so these certainly help,” says Dr Suman Singh, Director Health Services. Officials also credit public awareness as a major factor. Messages urging people not to let water collect in flowerpots, buckets, old tyres, and open containers have shown good results. According to the Health Department, if this level of cleanliness and alertness continues, dengue could remain under control in the coming months as well.
October, the peak dengue season
Usually, September and October are considered the peak dengue months. However, even halfway through October, the situation remains under control. Health officials say that continuous rainfall has played a key role in preventing dengue this time. Because of frequent and heavy rain, water did not collect, disrupting the mosquito breeding cycle. Still, the department has advised people to remain alert, as October is not yet over and remains a crucial time for dengue risk.
Health Department’s field activities
The Health Department has gone beyond awareness campaigns and is actively conducting field visits. Teams are visiting homes to check for larvae, while joint teams from the Municipal Corporation and the Health Department are issuing notices, show-cause letters, and fines to violators. Officials say that while the situation is currently under control, taking it lightly could be dangerous, and continued vigilance is necessary to keep dengue cases low.
