As we bid farewell to 2017, there is something else we must bid goodbye - dengue. Pune and Mumbai have registered the highest number of deaths due to dengue this year. Out of 34 deaths across the state, half - 17 - were in Greater Mumbai and 12 in Pune. Statistics show that between January and November, Mumbai registered 1,084 dengue cases. We need to turn around this shameful No 1 spot to the last spot in the coming year. Dengue cannot be fought by a single person or authority. This needs collective action.'

Let us begin with trying to prevent an outbreak – prevention is better than cure, as the adage goes. Try to ensure there is no water accumulation in your home. That includes small receptacles, the smallest of cups, or even water in discarded shells can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. In a way, citizens are the first responders or reactors to this crisis.