Spike in Malaria, Chikungunya & Fungal Infections Alarms Mumbai Amid Early Monsoon Onset

Spike in Malaria, Chikungunya & Fungal Infections Alarms Mumbai Amid Early Monsoon Onset

Mumbai: As the monsoon showers drench the city, Mumbai is facing an unexpected health crisis. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sounded the alarm over a sharp rise in cases of malaria, chikungunya, and fungal infections—even as other seasonal ailments like dengue, leptospirosis, and hepatitis show a dip.
 

Malaria Cases Cross Previous Year’s Count by Mid-July
 

According to BMC's latest monsoon health report, malaria cases have surged to 3,490 between January and July 14, 2025, surpassing the 2,852 cases recorded during the same period in 2024. Medical experts link this worrying rise to intermittent rainfall, early monsoon onset, and the changing climate—all of which have created ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

“The rains came early this year and with gaps between showers, we’ve had multiple stagnant water pools forming across the city. This has given mosquitoes ample time to breed,” said a senior BMC official.

The civic body has now rolled out its ‘Zero Mosquito Breeding Campaign’, instructing officials to conduct regular inspections at civic hospitals, government offices, and public institutions. Citizens are being urged to take steps at the household level, including covering water containers, using mosquito repellents, and clearing clogged drains.
 

Chikungunya Cases Triple Amid Climate Change Concerns
 

Even more alarming is the spike in chikungunya cases, which have tripled to 179 cases, compared to just 46 at the same time last year. Dr. Lancelot Pinto, a noted pulmonologist and epidemiologist, warned, “Chikungunya may seem less fatal than dengue or malaria, but its long-term effects like joint pain and fatigue can be debilitating. There is no targeted antiviral treatment, which makes prevention crucial.”
 

Medical Experts Raise Red Flags Over Construction Sites
 

Doctors across Mumbai’s hospitals are also highlighting the role of ongoing construction in mosquito breeding. Dr. Ashit Hegde, a leading intensivist, emphasized, “Pools of stagnant water around under-construction buildings must be drained immediately. Otherwise, mosquito-borne diseases like malaria will continue to rise.”

Dr. Gautam Bhansali from Bombay Hospital pointed out another worrying trend among malaria patients: “We’re seeing low platelet counts, which typically indicates a more severe illness. So far, hydration and medical monitoring are helping us manage without transfusions, but it’s a risk.”
 

Fungal Infections Rise with the Rains

The monsoon has not only brought vector-borne diseases but has also triggered a wave of fungal skin infections, especially in moisture-prone areas like underarms, toes, and the groin. JJ Hospital’s dermatology department reported a 1.5x increase in patients, from 60-65 daily to 90-100 daily cases.

“These infections are common among those wearing damp clothes or wet footwear for long periods,” explained Dr. Pralhad Rathod, Head of Dermatology at JJ Hospital. “Symptoms include redness, intense itching, scaling, and even skin peeling. Self-medication with steroid creams can worsen the condition.”
          

Private Hospitals Also Report Spike
 

Dr. Swagata Tambe from Rajawadi Hospital echoed similar observations, citing 30-40 extra patients per day suffering from either fungal or viral skin infections. “It’s typical to see an uptick during monsoon, but this year’s early rains have magnified the scale,” he added.

Private hospitals are also seeing an influx of monsoon-related ailments. “Most working professionals ignore initial symptoms and continue to wear damp clothes throughout the day, which aggravates infections. By the time they visit a doctor, it often requires longer treatment,” said Dr. Bhansali.
 

BMC Advisory: Act Early, Stay Safe
 

To curb the outbreak, the BMC has issued a set of guidelines for residents:

• Avoid storing stagnant water in or around the home.
• Use mosquito nets and repellents.
• Drink only boiled or filtered water.
• Refrain from consuming street food during the monsoon.
• Wear dry clothes and avoid staying in wet garments for long hours.
• Do not ignore fever, rashes, or unusual fatigue—seek medical help.

Conclusion
 

As Mumbai enjoys the much-needed rains, the city must also brace itself against the hidden health threats of the monsoon. With vector-borne and fungal infections rising sharply, timely prevention and community awareness will be key to navigating this season safely.