Mumbai: Cases of chikungunya in Mumbai have surged by 56% and malaria by 20% between January and August this year compared to the same period in 2024, according to the latest report from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Health Department. Hepatitis cases linked to contaminated food and water have also risen by 16%.
Early Monsoon Fuels Mosquito Breeding
Health officials attribute the spike to the early arrival of the monsoon in May, a month ahead of schedule. The early rains created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, leading to an increase in vector-borne illnesses.
Other Diseases Show Mixed Trend
While hepatitis cases rose, the city recorded a decline in gastroenteritis, as well as a drop in dengue and leptospirosis cases compared to last year.
Disease Trend (January–August)
• Malaria: 4,021 (2024) → 4,825 (2025)
• Dengue: 1,979 (2024) → 1,564 (2025)
• Chikungunya: 210 (2024) → 328 (2025)
• Gastroenteritis: 6,133 (2024) → 5,510 (2025)
• Hepatitis: 662 (2024) → 703 (2025)
• Leptospirosis: 553 (2024) → 316 (2025)
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Public Advisory
Public health authorities have urged citizens to eliminate stagnant water, maintain hygiene, and seek timely treatment to curb the spread of seasonal diseases.
