*Hyderabad, September 13, 2024*: Telangana is witnessing a significant increase in cases of both dengue and chikungunya, particularly in high-risk districts like Hyderabad, Suryapet, Khammam, and Warangal. Authorities are taking proactive steps to mitigate the spread of these vector-borne diseases as the situation continues to escalate.The Telangana Specialty Hospitals Association (TSHA) has expressed concerns over the rise in cases, urging the public to follow preventive measures, such as eliminating stagnant water and seeking timely medical care, to help curb the outbreak. R. Govind Hari, general secretary of TSHA, stated, “It’s still too early to predict the full impact of dengue this season, but we are monitoring the situation closely.” He noted that while dengue cases are increasing, chikungunya has outnumbered dengue in several districts. In addition to these diseases, other viral infections like Flu A, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and enteric fever are also being reported in significant numbers.Data from the State Health Department revealed a sharp spike in dengue cases, with numbers jumping from 4,459 on August 23 to 6,242 by August 30. Hyderabad, Medchal-Malkajgiri, and Khammam have been identified as high-risk areas, raising concerns among health officials.**Misdiagnosis of Chikungunya as Dengue**Doctors in Hyderabad have highlighted the challenge of misdiagnosing chikungunya as dengue, as both diseases share similar symptoms, including high fever, joint pain, and rashes. Dr. Pranitha Rao, an infectious disease specialist in Hyderabad, explained, “One of the difficulties we face is distinguishing between dengue and chikungunya early on because the symptoms are almost identical in the initial stages. Without proper diagnostic tests, patients often assume they have dengue, leading to unnecessary anxiety.”This problem is further aggravated by patients resorting to self-medication based on symptoms alone, which can delay appropriate treatment for chikungunya.Authorities are calling for increased public awareness and early diagnosis to manage the situation better and prevent further escalation of these illnesses. The public is advised to seek medical attention if symptoms persist and to take preventive measures, especially during the ongoing rainy season when mosquito-borne diseases tend to surge.