As the monsoon sweeps across India, dengue once again threatens to turn into a public health crisis. A new report by digital healthcare platform PharmEasy, based on more than 1.2 lakh diagnostic tests conducted between April 2022 and December 2024, has identified Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra as the top three dengue hotspots in the country.
According to the findings, Karnataka recorded 32,886 cases in 2024, followed closely by Tamil Nadu with 27,378 cases and Maharashtra with 19,385 cases. Kerala, though reporting a smaller caseload, stood out for its 128 dengue-related deaths, highlighting the deadly impact of the disease in certain regions.
Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Gujarat also reported significant numbers. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh in particular witnessed sharp post-monsoon spikes, consistent with seasonal patterns.
One of the more striking trends highlighted in the report is the shift toward earlier testing. On average, people are now seeking tests as early as May, a month earlier than the traditional spike period starting in June.
The data also reveals that individuals aged 11–30 are most likely to test positive. Men under 50 show higher positivity rates, while women over 50 appear more prone to serious complications such as platelet drop, bleeding, and plasma leakage.
Dengue cases typically peak between August and October, when high humidity levels and temperatures above 27°C create the perfect breeding conditions for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
The report also observed a correlation between dengue incidence and Google search spikes, showing how public anxiety surges during outbreak months
“Dengue remains one of India’s major seasonal health concerns, especially during and after the monsoons. Most recover after a short illness, but for some, it can lead to complications due to a drop in platelet count, plasma leakage, bleeding, or low blood pressure. It isn’t just about case numbers; it’s also about preparedness,” said Gaurav Verma, PharmEasy. “Not ignoring a high fever, getting tested early, focusing on prevention and timely care still remain our strongest defence.”
The report reiterates preventive steps such as using mosquito repellents, wearing full-sleeved clothing, eliminating stagnant water, installing protective nets and screens. It also calls for targeted interventions in high-incidence states, better surveillance, and prioritisation of high-risk groups which are identified in the data.
Experts warn that people who contract dengue start showing symptoms after three to 14 days of infection. "Most common symptoms reported by patients are high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash. Children and teens may experience no signs or symptoms during the mild attack of dengue fever. Normally, the infection causes high fever, which can rise to 104 degree Farenheit accompanied by headache, muscle, bone or joint pain,” says Dr Shah, a physician practicing in suburban Mumbai.
He further added that mild cases of dengue fever can be treated by consuming a good quantity of fluids to prevent dehydration whereas headaches and other dengue-related body pains could be eased by pain relievers. But aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided when taking relievers for the pain he cautioned.
Public health experts say that while private health data offers early warnings, there is a need to integrate such insights with government surveillance systems to ensure a more comprehensive response. Dengue, often described as a silent threat, continues to overwhelm health systems each year.
