In 2024, Gujarat reported 7,820 dengue cases, an increase in absolute numbers compared to 7,222 cases in 2023. However, the seropositivity rate—a key indicator reflecting the percentage of positive cases among tested samples—dropped from 4.7% in 2023 to 3.5% in 2024, signaling significant progress in controlling the disease.
The state conducted 2.21 lakh serum tests in 2024, a sharp increase from 1.49 lakh tests in 2023. To facilitate rapid diagnosis, the Gujarat government procured 1,70,000 NS1 rapid test kits. Alongside, 492 vector control teams surveyed 2,460 areas, deploying intensive surveillance and control measures during the monsoon season.
To identify the specific dengue strains circulating in the state, serum and mosquito samples were sent to B J Medical College and the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) in Gandhinagar.
Tamil Nadu Faces Rising Rabies Cases Amid Dog Bite Surge
Rabies has emerged as a severe public health concern in Tamil Nadu, with 34 fatalities and 6.42 lakh dog bite cases reported in 2024, marking a significant rise from 18 deaths and 4.41 lakh cases in 2023.
Recognizing the urgency, the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Public Health (DPH) has mandated round-the-clock availability of Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) in all districts. Health officers have been directed to maintain a minimum stock of 20 ARV vials at all times and to administer vaccines without hesitation, even during night hours.
The state’s zero fatalities from diseases like malaria, chikungunya, and leptospirosis in 2024 highlight the stark contrast and criticality of tackling rabies. However, a lack of reliable data on the dog population in many districts remains a bottleneck in managing the situation.
Districts like Chennai and Coimbatore have conducted dog population censuses, but most others lag behind. The Nilgiris district stands out as a success story, remaining rabies-free for 15 years due to aggressive vaccination campaigns. Sundar Raj, an animal rights activist from Nilgiris, emphasized the importance of ring vaccination and testing rabid dogs to prevent further spread.
Snake Bite Cases Decline, but Vigilance Remains Key
Tamil Nadu also reported 7,310 snake bite cases till June 2024, a significant decrease from 19,795 cases in 2023. The health department has directed all districts to ensure the availability of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) at Primary and Community Health Centers. A minimum stock of 10 ASV vials must be maintained, and ASV should be administered promptly without requiring a test dose.
A Call for Sustained Efforts
Both Gujarat and Tamil Nadu demonstrate that proactive public health measures, including vaccination drives, surveillance, and resource allocation, are critical in combating vector-borne and zoonotic diseases. While Gujarat’s declining seropositivity rate offers hope, Tamil Nadu’s rabies crisis underscores the urgent need for robust animal control programs and community awareness.
As these states tackle their respective health challenges, their efforts provide valuable lessons for the rest of India in building a resilient and responsive healthcare system.
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