Mosquito‑borne Outbreak Threatens 150‑Family Tamil Camp in Tamil Nadu

A dengue outbreak is sweeping through a Sri Lankan Tamil rehabilitation camp near Kadayanallur in Tenkasi district, endangering the health of more than 150 families that have lived there for about 35 years. So far, over 50 residents have suffered from fever, and two deaths have been recorded – a 27‑year‑old woman named Narmala and a 13‑year‑old girl.

Both patients were admitted to Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital, where they received treatment but could not be saved. The community attributes the surge to inadequate waste disposal, with garbage often dumped close to the camp and occasionally burned, releasing smoke and creating mosquito habitats.

In reaction, the district administration has launched intensified fogging, regular removal of stagnant water, and continuous health surveillance. Residents are urging authorities to maintain strict sanitation, enforce a ban on waste dumping, and ensure that fever screening and prompt treatment continue until the disease is fully under control.