Delhi sees 4-year high in Malaria cases this November: Here's what you need to know

Mosquitoes are the primary carriers of malaria and dengue; Delhi has reported a spike in malaria cases this November.

Delhi is seeing an odd pattern in diseases spread by insects this year. Dengue cases have dropped , but the city has logged its highest November malaria count in four years, based on the latest data from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).

The capital logged 67 malaria cases in November, marking the highest number for the month since 2021. This comes after a worrying rise in recent months — 203 cases in September and 252 in October — pushing the city’s total malaria tally for 2025 to 690 cases, only slightly lower than last year’s 744. The only silver lining: no malaria deaths have been reported so far this year.

Dengue, however, has experienced a sharp decrease. This year, Delhi has seen 1,309 dengue cases, a big drop from 4,978 in 2024 and 7,011 in 2023. Data from mid-November shows only 1,257 dengue cases, compared to over 4,500 cases during the same time last year. two deaths linked to dengue have been reported so far hinting at better disease control and more effective community efforts to prevent it.

Also Read: Mpox, malaria, dengue, swine flu: Causes, symptoms and treatment tips for these serious diseases

Why malaria is rising while dengue is falling

Longer damp weather after the monsoon

More places for mosquitoes to breed in building sites

Possible gaps in efforts to control mosquito larvae

A shift in mosquito populations — Anopheles mosquitoes, which spread malaria, have become more active in cooler weather

At the same time wide-reaching public education drives local clean-ups, and improved medical response systems seem to have helped cut down dengue infections.

Symptoms to Look Out For

-Shaking and feeling cold

-Head pain

-Tiredness or lack of energy

-Feeling sick or throwing up

-Aches in muscles or joints

Dengue

-Quick spike in body heat

-Bad head pain

-Discomfort behind the eyes

-Pain in joints, muscles and bones

-Skin outbreak

-Slight bleeding (from nose, gums)

Get a doctor's help right away if signs get worse for over 24–48 hours.

How to Keep Yourself Safe: Easy Steps to Prevent Trouble

• Check for standing water in flower pots, AC trays, water pails, roof tanks, or coolers and get rid of it.
• Put temephos granules in coolers or clean them once a week when mosquitoes are active.
• Cover windows with screens and shut doors at sunrise and sunset.

• Put mosquito spray on any skin that's not covered.
• Dress in clothes that cover your arms and legs at night.
• Sleep under mosquito nets if your windows are open or you're outside.

Also Read: Malaria symptoms and treatment: Make your immune system strong with these foods in your daily diet

What Your Community Can Do

• Tell city officials about drains that don't work or standing water at building sites.
• Help clean up your area with your neighbours.
• Ask your residents' group to spray for bugs often.

FAQs on Dengue and Malaria:

Symptoms include sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint, muscle, and bone pain, skin rash, and mild bleeding.

How is malaria transmitted?

Malaria is transmitted through the bite of an infected Anopheles mosquito.

How can I prevent mosquito bites?

Use mosquito repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets.

When should I seek medical attention for dengue or malaria?

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms worsen for over 24–48 hours.

What are the main reasons for the rise in malaria cases in Delhi?

Factors include extended damp weather, more breeding sites at construction sites, gaps in mosquito larvae control efforts, and increased activity of Anopheles mosquitoes in cooler weather.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis