Patna: The Bihar health department has reserved 2,016 hospital beds across the state amid a sharp rise in dengue cases, with officials warning that September to November could see the highest spike in infections.
Bihar is stepping up its preparedness against dengue as monsoon-related waterlogging drives a surge in cases. The health department confirmed that 2,016 hospital beds have been earmarked for patients, while district administrations have been instructed to stock adequate dengue test kits and strengthen mosquito-control measures through anti-larval spraying and fogging.
Data shows that 524 cases have been recorded in the state since January, including 197 in Patna, with 256 cases detected in August alone. Health officials say many of the infections were contracted in other states but identified in Bihar after patients returned home.
The state currently has 1,013 units of platelets available, a critical resource for treating severe cases. Dr Vinod Kumar Singh, the department’s director-in-chief, said dengue spreads through bites from infected mosquitoes, stressing the importance of preventing water stagnation and protecting against mosquito bites.
Authorities have directed municipal bodies to coordinate with the Urban Development Department to intensify fogging and anti-larval drives in high-risk areas. With historical data showing September to November as the peak months for dengue transmission, health workers are on alert to curb a potential outbreak.
