With the onset of early monsoon showers in Mumbai, there has been a spike in waterborne diseases in the city. Amid the surge, Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi tested positive for dengue on Wednesday.

The actor who was last seen in the film ‘Ground Zero’ is currently shooting for his next movie with Pawan Kalyan and his Telugu debut ‘OG’. This is when the shooting came to a halt after the actor started feeling unwell on the set and was diagnosed with dengue, as per the ToI report.

According to Gulte, the actor was shooting in Aarey Colony, Goregaon, when he started experiencing dengue-like symptoms. Following this, on the recommendation of doctors, he got his tests done and discovered that he is suffering from dengue.

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Maharashtra sees a spike in dengue and malaria cases

According to the National Centre for Vector Borne Disease Control (NCVBDC), Maharashtra recorded 2,726 malaria cases up to April 21 in 2025, which is marginally lower than the 2,867 cases reported back in the corresponding year of 2024.

While Mumbai experiences dengue outbreaks every year, however, the intensity varies. But can the early monsoon in the city lead to the spread of dengue cases? Let’s find out.

Why are June and July the peak months for the rise in dengue cases?

Dengue cases are rising during the monsoon and post-monsoon season as stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for Aedes mosquitoes. “Currently, not only malaria but even dengue cases are surging in people of all age groups. These mosquitoes bite during early morning and late afternoon hours, making daily protection essential. Hence, people should be extra cautious,” warns Dr. Kushal Bangar, Consultant Physician and Intensivist, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli, Maharashtra.

According to the Mayo Clinic, dengue fever is a mosquito-borne illness that occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Mild dengue fever causes a high fever and flu-like symptoms.

Symptoms of dengue you should watch out for:

According to Dr. Bangar, “Adequate hydration and supportive care can reduce the risk of severe outcomes. In severe cases, hospitalisation and close monitoring may be necessary for the patient.”

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The symptoms of dengue include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Joint and muscle pain
• Fatigue, skin rashes, and nausea.

“In some cases, it can progress to life-threatening complications like dengue hemorrhagic fever or shock syndrome, leading to bleeding, low platelet count, and organ damage,” adds Dr. Bangar.

Low immunity and genetic conditions: Who is at risk of dengue?

Early diagnosis of dengue is extremely crucial. “Children and the elderly are more vulnerable to dengue infection. Additional risk factors are staying in highly concentrated mosquito areas, unsanitary conditions, and ineffective mosquito control,” cautions Dr. Anantha Padmanabha, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru.

According to Dr. Padmanabha, “Previous dengue patients are also prone to developing severe dengue in case of infection with another serotype. Moreover, some genetic conditions, malnutrition, and pre-existing illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and pulmonary diseases may enhance the risk of developing severe dengue.”

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Such individuals must be cautious and prevent mosquito bites and immediately seek medical help in case of symptoms.

Preventive measures to follow amid a rise in dengue cases

In view of rising dengue cases during monsoon, it is imperative to take charge of health. Dr. Padmanabha suggests staying vigilant and following these crucial measures. Remember, prevention is better than a cure.

Use mosquito repellents: To prevent dengue, it is necessary to use mosquito repellents.

Wear full-sleeved clothes: Make sure you wear full-sleeved clothes whenever stepping outside.

Use sleep under nets: Sleeping under nets is crucial to prevent waterborne diseases, especially if you are prone to dengue or malaria.

Eliminate stagnation: Remove stagnant water in and around your home. So, remember to take these precautions to prevent dengue and improve the quality of life.

Seek immediate medical attention: Timely management of dengue can help the patient bounce back and resume the daily routine without any difficulty.

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