Prayagraj: Sangam city on Monday reported two fresh dengue cases taking the total number of cases to 17. One case each was reported from Mundera Mandi and Meja localities. As the city is experiencing incessant rains and humid weather conditions, the number of dengue cases is likely to surge in the coming days, health department officials said adding that the department has stepped up vigilance in Mundera Mandi, Meja, Allahapur, Teliyarganj, and Kareli from where most cases were being reported.

“We are conducting door-to-door surveys with the objective that no mosquito breeding ground is left in and around houses. People also need to be vigilant and inspect their overhead tanks, flowerpots, and water coolers to ensure there is no stagnant water.” said district malaria officer (Prayagraj) AK Singh.

The DMO advised people to wear full-sleeved clothing and use mosquito repellents. Singh said the health department has asked the municipal corporation to carry out fogging in hotspot areas. Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquitoes within the genus Aedes.

Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and a characteristic skin rash resembling that of measles. Health experts said the season - warm and muggy -- is favourable for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes . Residents with flu-like symptoms should consult doctors instead of self-medication, and others should take preventive measures such as wearing full-sleeved clothing and using mosquito repellents, the.