LUCKNOW, Oct. 24 -- The city is witnessing a late but sharp spike in dengue cases, with infections surging over 41% in just 10 days - a worrying trend after months of relatively low numbers. As per official data, 164 new cases were reported in the past 10 days, taking the total count to 557. Until October 13, the figure stood at just 393. Lucknow municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar said: "Fogging and anti-larva spraying have been continuing from the past several months." District malaria officer (DMO) Ritu Srivastava said as compared to 2024, things are in control this time as more than 900 cases were reported till October end last year. "We have worked tirelessly. Anti-larva spraying and fogging have been intensified at the places where the new cases have surfaced and also at the places which were waterlogged for a long time," she added. "Efforts are also being made to make people aware of it. Hot and humid climate after the rain is favourable for larva to penetrate as the rain water gets stagnant leading to a surge in dengue cases," the DMO said. Experts warn that the situation may worsen unless prompt preventive measures are taken. Dr Sheetal from department of microbiology, King George's Medical University (KGMU), said that dengue cases in Lucknow appear to be rising due to stagnant water from recent rain and poor drainage, creating mosquito breeding grounds. "Garbage dumps, construction sites, and uncovered containers further fuel mosquito growth. Warm, humid weather after the monsoon favours Aedes mosquito survival and transmission," she added. Head, microbiology department, Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS), Dr Jyotsna Agarwal said, "Dengue mosquito (Aedes aegypti) breeds usually in stagnated water inside homes and other places. Cases start at the end of July and peak in September and October." Mohammad Danish, senior scientist, India meteorological department, said temperature dropped by 2 to 3 degrees in the last 10 days which might not have caused a major impact in terms of mosquito growth. "However, stagnant water post rainfall is responsible for this sudden increase in dengue cases. As the temperature starts decreasing, the cases are also likely to reduce," he added. Consultant physician at Civil Hospital, Dr Kuldeep Verma, has advised people to wear full-sleeve shirts, long pants and socks to cover exposed skin. "Apply mosquito repellent with picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on the exposed skin. Do not apply permethrin directly to skin, use it only on clothing and gears," he said. "Remove stagnant water from containers, tires, coolers and other items in and around your homes where mosquitoes can breed. Install screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Keep surroundings clean," Dr Verma added. "Be extra cautious during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Stay in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms whenever possible," he said....