India's capital, Delhi, has reported 98 new cases of dengue and 23 new cases of malaria in early October. Find out how many people have fallen victim to dengue and malaria so far.
Dengue-malaria on the rise in Delhi
Even as the monsoon season has weakened in Delhi, the threat of mosquito-borne diseases appears to be declining. According to the latest report from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), 98 new cases of dengue have been reported in the first week of October alone. This brings the total number of dengue cases so far in 2026 to 695. Twenty-three new cases of malaria have also been reported, bringing the total to 266.
Dengue and malaria are both common but serious diseases spread by mosquito bites that cause high fever. However, with timely treatment, they can be cured. Their initial symptoms are also similar. Both present with a sudden high fever, body and joint pain, and a drop in platelet count.
The highest number of cases increased in September.
This year, September was a surprising month for both dengue and malaria. Delhi recorded 286 dengue cases in September, the highest number for any single month this year. 124 malaria patients were also found in the same month. Previously, in August, 90 dengue and 53 malaria cases were reported. This means that the rate of infection suddenly increased in September. The 98 dengue cases reported in the first week of October alone indicate that caution is still needed.
Mosquitoes increase after the rains.
It's commonly believed that mosquito-borne diseases diminish after the rains end. However, the accumulation of water after rain leads to mosquito breeding. The Aedes mosquito, which spreads dengue, thrives in clean water. They typically breed in coolers, tanks, flower pots, and other waterlogged areas. Therefore, it's crucial to regularly clean surrounding areas that hold water.
Malaria also became a concern.
The current concern in Delhi isn't limited to dengue. Malaria cases also saw a sharp rise in September. From January to August, Delhi had 142 cases, but September alone saw 124 new cases. In the first week of October, 23 more cases were reported. Therefore, treating a fever at home for a long time is not a good idea.
No death toll yet
Amidst the rising cases, it is a matter of relief that no deaths from dengue or malaria have been reported in Delhi so far in 2026. Despite this, the increasing numbers certainly pose a challenge for the health department and the municipal corporation. The MCD is carrying out activities like fogging, larva testing, and door-to-door inspections to prevent mosquitoes. According to the Delhi Municipal Corporation's report, this year, household breeding checkers visited more than 3.18 crore homes and found mosquito breeding in more than 1.89 lakh homes.
