Dengue, Swine Flu Cases Surge in Tamil Nadu; Doctors Urge Vigilance Ahead of Monsoon

September 5, 2026

Chennai: Tamil Nadu is witnessing a rise in dengue and swine flu cases compared with last year, prompting doctors to call for greater vigilance and stronger preventive measures ahead of the monsoon season.

Public Health Department data show that 13,573 dengue cases were reported across the state between January 1 and August 30 this year, with nine deaths. While the fatality rate remains relatively low, health experts have raised concerns over the sharp increase in infections during July and August.

Dengue cases rise sharply in July, August

Tamil Nadu recorded 1,722 dengue cases in January, followed by 1,322 in February, 1,228 in March, 1,201 in April and 1,062 in May.

Cases began rising again in June, with 1,384 infections reported that month. The figure increased to 2,339 in July and further climbed to 3,315 in August.

The rise is particularly significant compared with the same period last year. Dengue cases increased from 1,880 in July last year to 2,339 this July. August cases nearly doubled, rising from 1,832 last year to 3,315 this year.

Chennai has reported the highest number of dengue infections, with 2,584 cases between January and August. Coimbatore followed with 1,999 cases.

Tamil Nadu recorded 25,533 dengue cases in the whole of last year, after the annual caseload had declined considerably from the higher levels recorded between 2022 and 2024.

Swine flu infections also increase

Swine flu infections have also risen in Tamil Nadu, with the state recording more than 1,500 cases this year. It currently ranks second among states in the country in terms of reported infections.

The increase has been particularly noticeable during June, July and August. In August alone, swine flu cases jumped to 645, compared with just 46 during the corresponding month last year.

Government doctors said Chennai’s high population density and inadequate adherence to public-health precautions were contributing to the spread of infections.

Doctors advised people suffering from swine flu to isolate themselves for at least five days. Those experiencing fever or respiratory symptoms were also advised to avoid crowded places, wear masks where appropriate and seek medical attention without delay.

Doctors stress dengue and flu prevention

For dengue prevention, health authorities have stressed the need to eliminate stagnant water and mosquito-breeding sites around homes and workplaces.

Doctors said maintaining environmental cleanliness, strengthening mosquito-control measures, spreading public awareness and ensuring early treatment would be crucial to prevent a further rise in infections during the coming rainy months.

With the monsoon still ahead, health officials and doctors have urged residents to remain alert and follow preventive measures to reduce the risk of dengue and respiratory infections.