Jamshedpur: Five new dengue cases were reported across East Singhbhum district between in the past 72 hours, taking the tally of confirmed cases to 10 since Aug 1 this year.Between Aug 28 and Tuesday, one confirmed dengue case was reported each from Kadma, Mango, Telco and Sakchi in Jamshedpur while one was reported from Ghatsila. The patients include a two-year-old boy and two males and two females, aged between 15 and 41 years.District health department officials said three patients are undergoing treatment at Tata Motors Hospital, while one each is admitted to Tata Main Hospital and St John’s Hospital.Health officials said nearly 4,900 suspected dengue cases have been tested so far since Aug 1, of which 10 returned positive. District surveillance officer Dr Asad said all healthcare centres have been on alert since the first dengue case was detected in the first week of Aug. “We need to remain on alert until the end of Sept, as irregular rainfall and fluctuating temperatures have the potential to trigger a rise in dengue cases,” he said.Meanwhile, in neighbouring West Singhbhum district, revenue and land reforms minister Deepak Birua on Wednesday flagged off a publicity vehicle to spread awareness about swine flu (H1N1).The vehicle will travel across the district to educate people about swine flu symptoms, preventive measures and precautions to be taken in case of infection. The campaign will provide simple information on identifying symptoms and preventing infection.
