Kamal Ghorui
New Delhi: Delhi has recorded a sharp decline in dengue cases in 2025, signalling the impact of sustained preventive measures, though malaria and chikungunya have emerged as growing concerns, according to govt data.Dengue cases fell steeply from 9,266 with 19 deaths in 2023 to 6,391 cases and 11 deaths in 2024, and further to 1,399 cases with just two deaths in 2025 (till Dec 6). Officials attributed the drop to improved surveillance, better case management and aggressive awareness campaigns.However, the data also points to a shift in the vector-borne disease burden. Malaria cases rose from 426 in 2023 to 792 in 2024 and remained high at 719 in 2025. Chikungunya cases jumped from 65 in 2023 to 267 in 2024 before easing to 168 in 2025.Mortality from malaria and chikungunya has remained negligible. No chikungunya deaths have been reported since 2018, while malaria has caused only two deaths in the past eight years — in 2020 and 2022.Dengue, officials said, continues to follow a cyclical pattern, with major outbreaks recorded in 2021 (9,613 cases, 23 deaths) and again in 2023, highlighting the city’s vulnerability to seasonal and environmental factors.“This has been possible due to improved case management and timely intervention by health authorities across the city,” an official said.Vector-borne diseases in the capital typically rise during the monsoon, beginning in late June or July as waterlogging and stagnant water create mosquito breeding sites. Cases usually peak between Sept and Oct and decline with the onset of winter.To contain outbreaks, the govt adopted a multi-pronged strategy under the State Health Mission. A major push came through intensive information, education and communication (IEC) campaigns in Oct and Nov 2025, including publicity across multiple media platforms.“In 2025, awareness was further amplified through banners and IEC material in hospitals and health centres, and audio announcements at Delhi Metro stations. District authorities also carried out targeted outreach during peak transmission periods,” the official said.Strengthening surveillance has been another key factor. The Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), a near-real-time digital reporting system, now enables daily monitoring of cases across govt and private facilities, allowing quicker detection and response.“The govt is not complacent. In 2026, all necessary measures will be taken well in advance to ensure sustained vigilance, especially in densely populated areas,” the official said.
