The Gujarat government is taking strong measures to control mosquito-borne diseases like malaria during the monsoon season. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Health Minister Rishikesh Patel, the health department is working hard to eliminate these diseases. In the last three years, they have collected over 4.48 crore blood samples from citizens and tested more than 4.46 lakh serum samples. During these tests, they found 8,956 cases of malaria, 15,841 cases of dengue, and 1,345 cases of chikungunya.
In 2025, during the first 28 weeks, over 92.86 lakh blood samples were taken, revealing 860 malaria cases, which sadly resulted in 40 deaths. For dengue, more than 67,000 serum samples were tested, resulting in 728 cases, as well as 130 cases of chikungunya.
To tackle these diseases, the health department has initiated various measures. They have sprayed insecticides in 196 villages across 21 districts, covering an estimated population of 2.04 lakh people. This spraying began on May 16, 2025, and will continue until July 11, 2025. The second round of spraying is set to start from August 1, 2025.
Additionally, 492 vector control teams have been established, with a total of 2,460 personnel. They are monitoring areas sensitive to mosquito-borne diseases closely. From June 9 to June 21, 2025, a house-to-house survey was conducted in all districts and municipal areas to check for fever and provide health education. This survey covered 92% of the population. The second round of house-to-house surveys is planned to begin on July 21, 2025.
The health department has also placed mosquito larvae-eating fish in 3,431 locations to control mosquito breeding. They are monitoring the situation daily, weekly, and monthly to ensure that mosquito-borne diseases remain under control.
Despite these efforts, malaria remains a concern. The state saw an average of over 380 malaria cases reported monthly. However, there has been a decrease in cases since 2019. For instance, in 2024, 4,365 malaria cases were reported with only one fatality.
The health department claims that the malaria positivity rate in Gujarat is below 1 per 1,000 people. This progress has moved Gujarat from category 2 to category 1 in the nationwide malaria elimination initiative. The state government provides free diagnosis and treatment for malaria at all health centres.
In summary, Gujarat is making significant strides in combating malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. With dedicated efforts from the health department and community engagement, the state is hopeful for a healthier future.