Malaria Cases Surge in East Singhbhum, Over 1,800 Infections Reported in Two Weeks

 Jamshedpur: East Singhbhum district is witnessing a sharp rise in malaria cases, with 1,826 infections reported over the past 14 days, prompting the Health Department to intensify surveillance, treatment and preventive measures across affected areas. On Saturday alone, 110 new malaria cases were detected during extensive screening drives.

The outbreak has been most severe in Potka block, where repeated screening campaigns have been carried out following several cerebral malaria cases and related deaths in recent weeks. Health teams have been conducting door-to-door surveys, fever screening and rapid malaria tests in vulnerable villages.

Health teams step up field operations

Medical officials have intensified malaria surveillance in high-risk villages by distributing medicines, conducting awareness campaigns and advising residents to seek immediate medical attention if they develop fever or other symptoms. Special emphasis is being placed on early diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent severe complications such as cerebral malaria.

Municipal bodies launch mosquito-control drive

With malaria cases beginning to appear in urban areas as well, civic authorities have launched an intensified anti-mosquito campaign. Regular fogging and anti-larval spraying are being carried out in waterlogged areas, drains and mosquito breeding sites.

Officials said that whenever a malaria patient is identified, a special containment drive covering a one-kilometre radius around the patient’s residence will be undertaken to curb further transmission.

Residents urged to take precautions

Health authorities have appealed to residents to use mosquito nets, eliminate stagnant water around their homes, maintain cleanliness and report fever cases without delay. Officials said public cooperation would play a vital role in controlling the spread of malaria during the ongoing monsoon season.