Between 2020 and 2024, Telangana witnessed a staggering 60-fold increase in suspected chikungunya cases, marking the highest rise in India, according to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).
Massive Jump in Cases
The number of suspected cases in Telangana climbed dramatically—from 220 in 2021 to 13,592 in 2024. In comparison, Andhra Pradesh recorded a much smaller sixfold rise, from 753 to 4,213 cases during the same period. Other states reporting significant increases included Haryana (765 to 2,766), Madhya Pradesh (3,822 to 13,677), Punjab (644 to 2,258), and Karnataka (40,134 to 78,217).
Continuing Trend in 2025
As reported by TOI, the upward trend has continued into 2025, with 7,176 cases reported up to August, as per NCVBDC data. Health officials attributed this spike to monsoon-related conditions—water contamination, sewage overflow, and poor sanitation—that facilitate the spread of the Aedes mosquito, the primary vector of chikungunya.
Monsoon and Urban Flooding Worsen Spread
In recent years, Hyderabad’s monsoons have brought above-normal rainfall, leading to waterlogging and urban flooding, particularly in August and September. Experts warned that these conditions are ideal for mosquito breeding, allowing the disease to spread more rapidly across urban areas.
Nature and Symptoms of the Disease
Chikungunya is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It typically causes fever and severe joint pain, often accompanied by headaches, muscle pain, and skin rashes.
State Issues Repeated Public Advisories
Given the steep increase in infections, the Telangana government has repeatedly urged citizens to take preventive measures such as using mosquito repellents, covering windows, and removing stagnant water from their surroundings.
Experts Link Outbreak to Monsoon Cycles
According to Dr. Madap Karuna, senior paediatrician and vector-borne disease expert, chikungunya follows epidemic cycles every four to five years. “The 2024 outbreak was the worst in a decade, driven by heavy rainfall and flooding in several areas. Such conditions provide ideal breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes, which can lay eggs even in small containers holding just 50 ml of clean stagnant water,” she explained.
Poor Sanitation and Sewage Overflow Add to Risk
Doctors have flagged recurring sewage overflow as another major concern. The problem stems from damaged pipelines, clogged drains, and inefficient waste management, which create unhygienic environments ideal for mosquito breeding.
“Sewage overflow happens regularly in Hyderabad, even after short spells of rain or sometimes on dry days,” said Dr. K. Sucharita, General Physician at the Khairatabad PHC. “This allows Aedes mosquitoes to multiply quickly and spread chikungunya. Municipal authorities must step up hygiene drives and maintain constant vigilance,” she urged.
Health Department Steps Up Preventive Measures
Dr. B. Ravinder Nayak, Director of Public Health, Telangana, emphasized the need for regular anti-larval operations, fogging, and cleanliness drives, especially before and during the monsoon season. “Municipal authorities must carry out these activities consistently. People should also avoid storing water in drums and coolers, as these become breeding sites for mosquito larvae,” he said.
Coordinated Public Health Campaigns
Dr. Nayak added that the Health Department, in collaboration with GHMC, municipalities, and gram panchayats, has intensified anti-larval operations this year. “Fogging activities are being conducted jointly with the entomology wing of GHMC and other local bodies. District Medical and Health Officer (DMHO) teams are also leading the ‘Friday Dry Day’ campaign, urging citizens to eliminate stagnant water every Friday. This initiative aims to disrupt mosquito breeding and is part of a broader strategy to combat seasonal illnesses,” he explained.
Community Awareness Key to Prevention
Officials reiterated that while government efforts are ongoing, public participation remains crucial. Regular household inspections, sanitation drives, and awareness campaigns can help reduce mosquito breeding and protect communities from chikungunya and other vector-borne diseases.