Health authorities issue an alert. 15 other people in Pune have visited hospitals with symptoms of the disease; reports awaited today

The pre-monsoon showers hit the city only yesterday, but 27 cases of dengue have already been reported in the Wai region near Mahableshwar. Health authorities have issued an alert about the outbreak of an epidemic in the region. The outbreak of the diseaseu00a0spread via aegypti mosquito started in Maulinagar.

Also, many Puneites with dengue symptoms have reportedly visited hospitals. Dr Dhanajay Chandakkar, medical officer, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), said, "In Vadgaon Sheri, around 15 patients have displayed similar symptoms. Their blood samples have been sent to Sasoon General Hospital and the reports are expected today."

The blood platelet report will confirm the presence of dengue. Chandakkar added, "PMC employees have noticed larval breeding at the residence of five out of the 15 patients who have complained of fever and body ache."

Anti-larval pesticides have been sprayed in area. Also, residential premises are being scanned for the presence of stagnant water that could be mosquito-breeding sites .

Dr S Mohite, district health officer, Wai, said, "On Thursday, health officialsu00a0 confirmed around 27 cases of dengue. We are taking all measure to control the disease." The authorities are trying to check small villages. He added, "We are trying to clean out domestic water containers that are often used by the aegypti mosquitoes that cause dengue to breed. We will also spread awareness about the fever via handouts."u00a0