Mumbai has recorded a sharp increase in malaria, chikungunya, and hepatitis cases from January to September 15, 2025, compared to the same period last year, according to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The city reported 6,277 malaria cases, 542 chikungunya cases, and 913 hepatitis cases, while dengue and gastroenteritis showed a decline.
Health officials attribute this rise to prolonged monsoon rains, urban waterlogging, and climate-related factors, and have intensified control measures. Citizens are urged to follow preventive guidelines and report symptoms early.
Monsoon Fuels Rise in Vector-Borne Diseases
Monsoon conditions in Mumbai provide ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, causing a surge in vector-borne diseases such as malaria and chikungunya. Malaria cases climbed from 5,182 in 2024 to 6,277 in 2025, while chikungunya rose from 366 to 542 cases.
Hepatitis cases increased marginally to 913 from 791. Meanwhile, dengue cases reduced from 3,435 to 2,724, signaling some success in specific containment efforts.
The BMC intensified fogging, cleanliness drives, and fever screenings across the city. A senior BMC official stated, “We are conducting over 4.7 lakh house surveys and collected more than 83,000 blood samples this monsoon to track and manage outbreaks.”
Environmental and Climate Factors Worsen Impact
Experts link this year’s spike to early and intermittent rainfall, creating stagnant water pools that nurture mosquito populations. Dr. Daksha Shah, BMC executive health officer, explained, “Early monsoon rains since May have created a conducive environment for vector breeding.” Climate change effects, including increased humidity and temperature fluctuations, are also worsening the risks.
Mumbai’s dense urban environment, poor drainage, and waterlogging exacerbate this problem. Public health activists warn easy access to stagnant water in residential areas must be tackled alongside government programmes for lasting control.
Symptoms, Risks and Expert Advice on Prevention
Chikungunya symptoms include severe joint pain, high fever, muscle aches, and rash, sometimes lingering for weeks or months. Malaria causes fever, chills, and may lead to organ failure if untreated. Hepatitis causes liver inflammation with symptoms like fatigue and jaundice.
Dr. Vimal Pahuja of Hiranandani Hospital advised, “Wear full-sleeved clothing and use mosquito repellents, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquito activity peaks.”
Dr. Divya Gopal from Sir H. N Reliance Foundation Hospital stressed removing stagnant water is critical. “Mosquito nets and repellents help but won’t suffice if breeding grounds remain.” Early medical consultation on spotting symptoms can prevent complications, experts urge.
Civic Efforts and Community Responsibility
The BMC continues to run its ‘Zero Mosquito Breeding Campaign,’ involving fogging in high-risk areas and enforcing sanitation standards in hospitals and public offices. Increased community awareness campaigns focus on hygiene maintenance and symptom recognition.
The civic body urged residents to cover water containers, clear clogged drains, and dispose of plastic waste. The city’s healthcare infrastructure is ramping up diagnostics and symptomatic treatment, but officials say community cooperation is vital for success.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The rise in preventable diseases such as malaria, chikungunya, and hepatitis amidst declining dengue cases shows that public health victories are possible through sustained action but also that climate and infrastructure challenges require adaptive responses.
Mumbai’s crowded urban landscape demands continuous vigilance, civic responsibility, and citizen participation to protect vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
This health alert urges constructive dialogue and empathy for those suffering while encouraging positive engagement in prevention.
