Demand for platelets in Jamshedpur quadruples amid rising dengue cases

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Oct 7: The rapid surge in dengue cases in East Singhbhum district has led to a sharp increase in the demand for platelets. Blood bank officials report that the usual monthly requirement of around 550 units has now spiked to 2400 units, marking a fourfold increase. As of now, 337 confirmed cases of dengue have been reported in Kolhan, with the health department on high alert.

Jamshedpur’s blood banks, known for their proactive response to dengue, are managing to meet the demand, but continuous appeals for platelet donations are being made to ensure that patients do not face treatment delays. Currently, 25 dengue-positive patients are hospitalized, with one in critical condition in the ICU at Tata Main Hospital (TMH). Additionally, over 150 suspected dengue patients are undergoing treatment in various hospitals across the city.

The district has confirmed 245 cases from East Singhbhum, 21 from West Singhbhum, and 62 from Seraikela-Kharsawan. Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal has urged citizens to remain cautious as dengue cases are expected to rise until November. Ongoing campaigns aim to raise awareness and prevent further spread of the disease. Doctors have been instructed to adhere to specific guidelines for managing platelet transfusions, a critical aspect of dengue treatment as platelet levels drop significantly in infected patients.