Bikaner (Rajasthan), Sept 19 (ANI): An outbreak of Malaria has overtaken Bikaner District of Rajasthan.

The number of patients have shot up sharply in the last few days and according to reports more than 13 people have already fallen prey to the vector-borne disease in this season.

Doctors at the PBM hospital in Bikaner said that on an average at least ten patients come to the hospital complaining of malaria. They admitted that the number of patients is on a rise but assured that remedial measures are being taken.

“Every year we take precautions, senior doctors are there to take care of the patients round the clock. We have a separate ward for the malaria patients. And as far as possible, we are trying to provide free of cost service to all the patients,” said K. S. Nayyar, a doctor at the hospital.

However, patients complained that not only the local authorities are failing to clear off the accumulated garbage in the city on a regular basis, but also the health centers are unable to cope with the rush of patients.

“There is no cleanliness in the village, malaria outbreak has to take place in such circumstances. The government should take some action,” said Usha, a relative of a malaria patient from a nearby village.

Sanitary workers and paramedics have been deployed in affected villages. But locals have complained of lack of clean and hygienic conditions.

According to reports, 15 states of India have recorded a total of 1,495 dengue cases and 19 deaths due to the disease till August 31. Cases of Dengue have also been reported in New Delhi.

The Health Ministry has asked other state governments to take necessary steps to prevent and control the outbreak of vector-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya apart from malaria. (ANI)