PharmEasy report reveals ‘dengue hotspots’ in India during monsoons

Dengue cases were seen peaking between August and October, a period marked by high humidity and temperature – conditions ideal for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes.

A report on dengue during the monsoons by digital healthcare platform PharmEasy reveals that Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra are the “dengue hotspots” in the country, during the stated period.

The report titled ‘Dengue: The Silent Threat of the Monsoon Season’ was based on over 1,20,000 diagnostic tests conducted by it between April 2022 and December 2024 across all 28 states and union territories, a PharmEasy note said. The report is based on data patterns observed from dengue testing conducted by PharmEasy Labs during the period, it clarified, adding that the insights from PharmEasy’s internal data may not be representative of broader national or regional trends.

Karnataka registered 32,886 cases in 2024, followed by Tamil Nadu with 27,378 cases and Maharashtra with 19,385 cases, it said, adding that Kerala, despite a smaller overall caseload, reported 128 deaths, “underscoring the severity of the disease in certain pockets.” Further, it pointed out that a surge in cases was also seen in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Gujarat – with Delhi and Uttar Pradesh showing sharp seasonal spikes during the post-monsoon period.

Pointing to a trend, it said, there was a shift towards earlier testing, “with people getting tested in May on average, as compared to June in previous years.” Data also shows that individuals aged 11–30 are most likely to test positive. Among those affected, men under 50 have higher positivity rates, while women over 50 tend to experience more severe complications, it added.

The cases were seen peaking between August and October, a period marked by high humidity levels of 60-78 per cent and temperatures exceeding 27°C – conditions ideal for the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes, it added. The report also noted “a correlation between rising dengue cases and increased Google search activity on the topic, indicating strong public concern during outbreak months.”

“Dengue remains one of India’s major seasonal health concerns, especially during and after the monsoons. Most recover after a short illness, but for some, it can lead to complications due to a drop in platelet count, plasma leakage, bleeding, or low blood pressure. It isn’t just about case numbers; it’s also about preparedness. Not ignoring a high fever, getting tested early, focusing on prevention and timely care still remain our strongest defence,” saidGaurav Verma, Chief Business Officer, API Holdings (that owns PharmEasy).