Tue Sep 09 19:48:37 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the information provided, suitable for The Hindu:

**Delhi Faces Sharp Rise in Malaria Cases, Highest in Five Years**

**New Delhi, September 10, 2025:** Malaria cases in Delhi have surged to 264 so far this year, marking the highest count in the last five years for the corresponding period, according to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Nearly 100 of these cases have been reported within the past three weeks alone, prompting the MCD to cancel weekly offs for public health field staff and intensify vector-control measures.

The MCD reports that the city has reported 557 dengue cases so far this year, slightly lower than last year’s 578 during the corresponding period. Chikungunya cases stand at 42, up from 30 last year.

“We have intensified fogging and vector-control measures, particularly in flood-prone areas,” stated MCD Chairperson Satya Sharma. “Deputy health officers have been directed to monitor disease-control activities in riverbank zones and ensure sufficient supplies of chlorine and ORS packets.”

Dr. Kamal Bakthawar, from Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, attributed the surge to recent heavy rains and subsequent flooding in parts of the city. “We’ve seen a clear increase in OPD cases, particularly malaria, in the last few weeks. The likelihood of more infections nearby is very high,” he stated.

While improved diagnostic practices using rapid diagnostic kits are contributing to higher detection rates, officials acknowledge that not all cases are locally acquired. This year, 54 malaria cases are migratory, people who contracted the disease while visiting or travelling to Delhi from surrounding areas,” an MCD official said.

The West and Central zones of Delhi have emerged as hotspots. The West zone has reported 46 malaria and 57 dengue cases, while the Central zone logged 30 and 63 cases of malaria and dengue respectively.

A senior doctor at Hindu Rao Hospital highlighted the vulnerability of slum areas, citing poor sanitation, open drains, and high population density. “There’s an urgent need for targeted intervention in these areas. Some local clinics also lack proper medication for treating vector-borne diseases, in addition to patients who only seek medical attention when their condition worsens,” she said.

MCD officials confirmed that vector-borne disease control personnel will be working Saturdays and Sundays until November 30th, receiving compensatory leave afterward. They will continue to observe gazetted holidays. The MCD is urging residents to take precautions to prevent mosquito breeding and report any potential health concerns.

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