Tripura reported its first death due to dengue as an elderly man died of the mosquito-borne viral disease in  Sepahijala district on Tuesday. The deceased, identified as Subhas Sarkar, was a resident of Dhanpur area of the district. 


Sarkar was admitted to the Dhanpur primary health centre on July 28 after he complained of fever. A blood test confirmed Sarkar had dengue.


Talking to the media, Sarkar's son said, "After being admitted to Hapania Hospital in Agartala on July 28 night, my father complained of diarrhea. As there was no improvement in his health condition, we shifted him to the Dhanpur primary health centre where he breathed his last."


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There has been a spike in dengue cases in the state, with the maximum number of infections being detected in Sepahijala district.


At least 36 patients are presently undergoing treatment for dengue at the Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital in state capital Agartala.


Tripura saw an outbreak of malaria in 2018, especially in Dhalai district, with six people succumbing to the mosquito-borne disease. In 2014, malaria had claimed the lives of 96 people in Tripura. 


The Tripura government is leaving no stone unturned to control the rapid spread of the disease. The state health department has been monitoring the situation closely so that it does not turn to an epidemic.  


Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral disease occurring in tropical and subtropical areas. Symptoms include high fever, headache, rash and muscle and joint pain. 


In severe cases, there is serious bleeding and shock, which can be life threatening. Treatment includes fluids and pain relievers.


Bengal Also Sees Spike In Dengue Cases


West Bengal too has seen a rapid increase in dengue cases. Last week, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said eight people died of dengue while 4,401 people were infected till July 26.


The TMC supremo underscored that strict measures were being taken to tackle dengue and warned private hospitals of action if patients were denied treatment.