Mumbai has already recorded 3,490 malaria cases between January and July 14, 2025—surpassing the 2,852 cases reported during the same period in 2024, according to the BMC’s latest monsoon report released on Tuesday. Doctors have linked this alarming rise to intermittent rainfall and the early onset of the monsoon, which created optimal mosquito-breeding conditions.
Chikungunya Cases Triple; Other Diseases Decline
Alongside malaria, chikungunya cases have tripled, climbing from 46 last year to 179 this year. In contrast, dengue, leptospirosis, gastroenteritis, hepatitis A and E, and Covid-19 cases have declined over the same period.
Early Monsoon and Climate Change Fuel Vector-Borne Spread
A senior BMC official emphasized that the early monsoon contributed significantly to mosquito proliferation. In response, the civic body launched the ‘Zero Mosquito Breeding Campaign’, which mandates mosquito-control measures within civic hospitals and offices, while encouraging the use of bed nets at home.
Dr. Lancelot Pinto, pulmonologist and epidemiologist, stressed that climate-change-induced humidity had worsened the situation. “Increased humidity and changing average temperatures have led to a spike in mosquito populations and malaria,” he said. He also warned about chikungunya’s long-term impact, including persistent joint pain and the lack of specific antiviral treatment.
Construction Sites Blamed for Persistent Malaria Risk
Dr. Ashit Hegde, internal medicine and intensive care consultant, flagged stagnant water around construction sites as a key contributor to the mosquito menace. “Authorities must act quickly to address this. Unlike other monsoon diseases, malaria now persists throughout the year,” he noted, urging further investigation by health departments.
Worsening Symptoms in Malaria Patients Raise Concerns
Dr. Gautam Bhansali, consultant physician at Bombay Hospital, highlighted a worrying trend among malaria patients. “Several have shown low platelet counts and high-grade fevers, but we haven’t had to transfuse platelets so far. Proper hydration has been effective,” he said.
BMC Issues Public Advisory to Prevent Disease Spread
To curb the spread of infections, the BMC has issued a public health advisory, recommending:
- Clearing stagnant water
- Decluttering surroundings
- Using mosquito nets
- Drinking boiled water
- Avoiding street food
It has also urged residents not to ignore fevers, especially during the monsoon.
Fungal Infections on the Rise in Public Hospitals
At JJ Hospital, the dermatology OPD has seen a 1.5-fold increase in fungal infections since the rains began. “We’ve gone from 60–65 to nearly 90–100 patients a day,” said Dr. Pralhad Rathod, head of dermatology. These infections usually affect moisture-retaining areas like the groin, underarms, and between fingers and toes. Athlete’s foot is also widespread due to prolonged use of damp footwear.
Steroid Creams Worsen Skin Conditions
As reported by Hindustan Times, doctors warn that unsupervised use of over-the-counter steroid creams can worsen fungal infections. Common symptoms include intense itching, redness, scaling, rashes, and peeling skin.
Viral Skin Rashes and Fungal Infections Surge Across Hospitals
Dr. Swagata Tambe from Rajawadi Hospital reported a sharp rise in viral fevers with skin rashes, alongside fungal infections. “We are treating 30–40 additional patients daily in our OPD,” he noted.
Private hospitals echoed this trend. Dr. Bhansali added, “Monsoon leads to a clear rise in fungal infections, especially among office-goers and commuters who stay in wet clothes for extended periods. Unfortunately, many seek help only after the infection has spread, making treatment slower and more complex.”