MediBuddy, India’s largest digital healthcare platform, revealed a concerning trend in dengue test requests across major Indian cities, particularly in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The internal data analysis highlights a significant increase in dengue testing, raising concerns about the spread of this mosquito-borne disease during the monsoon season. Examining recent data from the user base, MediBuddy found that out of all dengue tests conducted across cities, a staggering 71% of requests originated from Bengaluru alone, while Hyderabad accounted for 14%. Other cities also showed noteworthy percentages of dengue test requests: Pune at 4%, Kolkata, Mumbai, Marunji, and Noida each at 2%, and Thane, Nagpur, and Delhi each at 1%.

The rising trend in dengue tests coincides with the monsoon season, a period known for increased mosquito breeding. This correlation emphasises the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures among the public. The concentration of test requests in just two cities highlighted the heightened risk and awareness of dengue in these urban areas.

Dr. Gowri Kulkarni, Head of Medical Operations, MediBuddy said, “The sharp rise in dengue test requests, especially in urban centers like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, is a clear indicator of the growing health concern. It's imperative that residents in these areas remain extra vigilant, and that local health authorities ramp up mosquito control efforts and public awareness campaigns. Early detection and timely medical intervention are key to managing dengue effectively.

The analysis uncovered significant variations in test request patterns across cities. Bangalore experienced a notable surge during the third week of June, with test requests increasing by 150% compared to the second week of May , coinciding with the start of the monsoon season. Hyderabad followed a similar trend, peaking in the fourth week of June with a 50% increase in test requests from its initial phase. These temporal patterns offer valuable insights for healthcare providers and local authorities, enabling more effective resource allocation and targeted preventive measures. Early symptoms of dengue include sudden high fever (up to 104°F), acute headaches, and severe pain behind the eyes. It is advised to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur, especially after being in a dengue-prone area. If the condition persists beyond 72 hours, seek medical evaluation and appropriate diagnostic tests.

MediBuddy remains committed to providing accessible healthcare services and raising awareness about dengue prevention and early detection. MediBuddy aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and adopt preventative measures against dengue and other seasonal illnesses.