Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A veteran radiologist from Jabalpur, Dr Gopal Pol succumbed to dengue fever on Tuesday.
Dr Pol had been unwell for several days and was undergoing treatment at a private hospital since a long time. This is the first dengue‑related death reported in the district this year.
His first screening test for dengue was negative, even though he showed clear dengue symptoms.
Later, an ELISA test confirmed he was positive. Despite continuous care from a team of doctors, he could not be saved.
ELISA test mandatory
The news has raised concern inside the local health department. Chief Medical & Health Officer Dr Sanjay Mishra reminded hospitals that a case should be called dengue only after an ELISA test is positive. Declaring it earlier can create panic and lead to wrong statistics, he said.
Dengue-sensitive phase starts
On‑and‑off monsoon rain and humid heat help mosquitoes breed. When rainwater collects and stands still, mosquito larvae multiply quickly. July, August and September are the most sensitive months for dengue in central India. In such a situation it is important for citizens to take precautions like:
Do not let water collect in buckets, flowerpots, tyres or open containers.
Wear long‑sleeved clothing and sleep under a mosquito net.
Use mosquito repellents and keep doors and windows screened.
What are the symptoms of Dengue?
Sudden high fever
Severe headache (often called “dengue headache”)
Joint and muscle pain
Skin rash appearing a few days after fever
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Bleeding from nose, gums or under the skin in severe cases
2024 saw rise in Dengue cases
The district saw a sharp rise in dengue cases in 2024 as well. Health experts warn that infection with one of the four dengue virus types does not protect you from the others, so anyone can be infected more than once.
Local officials urge residents to stay alert, report symptoms early, and follow prevention steps to stop further spread of the disease.
