Health authorities in Andhra Pradesh are racing against a mounting wave of vector and food-borne diseases, with malaria cases surging nearly 28% and troubling spikes in dengue, scrub typhus, and gastrointestinal infections.

Key facts

  • Malaria cases rose to 7,895 as of August 30, up from 6,172 last year
  • Dengue cases increased 4.6% to 1,475
  • Scrub typhus reached 941 cases
  • Food-borne illnesses in Srikakulam jumped from 34 to 408

Targeted Response

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav directed officials Sunday to intensify indoor residual spraying, distribute mosquito nets, and clear breeding sites—particularly in malaria-prone tribal zones. Districts including Alluri Sitarama Raju, Polavaram, and Vizianagaram are under close watch.

Weekly ‘Dry Day’ Initiative

Every Friday will now see a coordinated “Dry Day” effort where ASHA workers, health staff, local government personnel, and residents work together to eliminate stagnant water. The aim is clear: disrupt the mosquito life cycle where it starts.

Localized Hotspots

While dengue has seen a modest rise statewide, scrub typhus is concentrating in Alluri Sitarama Raju and Parvathipuram Manyam. But the most startling jump has been in food-borne illnesses in Srikakulam—a nearly twelvefold increase that has put officials on high alert.