Ludhiana, Aug. 30 -- Ludhiana has recorded 21 confirmed dengue cases and 50 malaria cases between April and August 25 this season, prompting the health department to step up surveillance and testing across the district amid monsoon conditions favourable for mosquito breeding.

The figures are up from the previous count reported earlier this month, when the district had recorded 15 dengue and 44 malaria cases. Health teams have collected 4,973 blood samples so far and are conducting field surveillance and testing in vulnerable areas.

The department is also carrying out anti-larval activities, source reduction and fogging in areas reporting mosquito breeding or fresh infections. Field teams are inspecting potential breeding sites and sensi...