Cases of dengue and malaria are increasing in the rains, free treatment is being provided through ‘Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana’ of Punjab Government.

Chandigarh: While the first monsoon rains provide relief from the heat, it also marks the beginning of a challenging season for people’s health. Every year, cases of dengue, malaria and other fever related diseases increase in hospitals across India. The same situation is being seen this year also.

The beneficiary shared his experience

Balwinder Kaur, 32, from Amritsar, who is a beneficiary of the scheme, said, “I recently got a treatment worth Rs 8,400 under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana.” Balwinder Kaur was taken to the hospital when she had very high fever.

She said, “The hospital staff helped me get registered under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana. I earn my living by stitching clothes. This scheme reduced my burden by providing timely treatment and financial assistance, so that I could focus on my recovery. I am grateful for this health scheme launched by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. It really supports families in their time of need.”

Challenge of dengue revealed in research

An Indian hospital study conducted in 2025 found that dengue was the most common cause of acute febrile illness among patients admitted during the monsoon. This finding shows that timely diagnosis and prompt treatment are extremely important, as many monsoon-related diseases begin with similar symptoms.

Doctors’ advice and Chief Minister Health Scheme

While doctors are appealing to people not to ignore persistent fever, the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) in Punjab is providing cashless treatment to eligible families without the worry of hospital bills.

Health Minister appealed to the people

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh said the government has strengthened surveillance, hospital preparedness and testing facilities to deal with the increase in mosquitoes and water-borne seasonal diseases. He appealed to people to adopt general prevention measures, such as cleaning stagnant water and seeking medical advice as soon as the initial symptoms of fever appear.

Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh said, “Prevention of water-borne diseases starts from home. Every family, school and community has its own role in preventing the breeding of mosquitoes. At the same time, we also want to tell the people that under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana, eligible beneficiaries can get timely treatment without worrying about the expense.”

Expert told why early treatment is necessary

Dr. Raj Kumar (M.D. Medicine), Senior Medical Officer, Community Health Centre, Verka, Punjab, said that patients often mistake every fever for a common viral infection. He said, “Every monsoon, we see patients who reach the hospital after being treated at home for three-four days. By then, they start showing warning signs of dehydration or dengue. A simple blood test and timely treatment can prevent serious complications. The first 48 hours are very important.”

He further said that dengue is not the only problem during the rainy season. He said, “Malaria, typhoid, viral hepatitis and acute gastroenteritis are also common during monsoon. Due to similar symptoms, people should avoid self-medicating and consult a doctor if fever persists. Early diagnosis can save life.”

Dr. Raj Kumar further said, “In the initial stage, such fevers can be treated safely and effectively in Community Health Centers (CHC) as well as Primary Health Centers (PHC) under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana.” He said that early diagnosis and timely treatment reduces complications and reduces the need for referral to big hospitals.

What was revealed in the data of Chief Minister Health Scheme?

The latest data of Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana shared by the State Health Agency (SHA) reflects seasonal trends. According to data till July 6, 2026, acute febrile illness remained one of the most common diseases treated under the scheme.

The patients were treated in community health centres, sub-divisional hospitals, district hospitals and empaneled private hospitals. Depending on the condition of the patient, the treatment packages for fever related diseases range from Rs 2100 to Rs 8400.

Cases of malaria, acute gastroenteritis, high fever and viral hepatitis have also been reported, which clearly shows that the season of monsoon diseases has started.

The claims related to fever have come from districts like Fazilka, Moga, Sangrur, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur, which shows that people are getting treatment near them instead of going to big cities.

Along with this, the data has also revealed the wide reach of the scheme. While a large number of beneficiaries got treatment for seasonal fever, the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana also covered dialysis, heart-related procedures, intensive care and other expensive treatments. From packages of a few thousand rupees for treatment of fever to life-saving cardiac services, the scheme is becoming a strong support for families in situations ranging from common illnesses to emergencies.

Take these precautions during monsoon

Dr Raj Kumar advised that people should not ignore fever that lasts for more than two days, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms like severe body ache, persistent vomiting, stomach ache, bleeding, trouble breathing or sudden weakness.

He also advised to empty the water accumulated in coolers, pots and other places, use mosquito repellent, wear full-sleeved clothes and maintain more cleanliness during monsoon.