A specialised dengue testing centre has been launched at the Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar, India, in response to an increase in dengue cases.

The aim is to manage the growing number of suspected dengue cases seeking testing at the hospital.

Director of Public Health Dr Mishra said: “Because testing has doubled in the state, more positive cases have come out compared to last year.

“Last year, the rate of test positivity was nine, while this year it is only six.

“Even so, the number of dengue patients taken critically ill is more than 5%.

“People think that there is a need for hospitalisation when the platelet count drops, which is wrong.

“Even if his platelet count drops to 20,000, there is no need for a platelet transfusion.”

To alleviate congestion at the Capital Hospital, additional beds have been arranged at various other healthcare facilities.

According to sources, two additional dengue testing centres will soon be operational in different areas of the city.

It is also claimed that the dengue situation in the state is currently stable, with around 120 to 130 cases detected daily while Bhubaneswar records 60 to 70 new cases per day.

As of August 25, there have been a total of 2,943 dengue-positive cases reported in the state, with Khordha district having the highest number.