The city of Lucknow has been grappling with the sudden surge in Dengue cases with 20 to 25 new cases being reported daily. The recent heavy rains on Sunday have further escalated the situation. As per the data released by the Chief Medical Officer’s office, Lucknow is currently witnessing an influx of Dengue cases, especially in areas like Aliganj, Chander Nagar, Indira Nagar, and the Silver Jubilee locality.

In response to this outbreak, many are resorting to home remedies. Coconut water intake is one of the most popular choices as it has a reputation for being the remedy for low platelet count. However, it is essential to know that coconut water alone cannot cure Dengue or increase blood platelet count. In an interview with News18, Dr Ajay Shankar Tripathi, the Medical Superintendent of Lucknow’s largest government hospital, Lokbandhu, shared that dengue’s severity seems to be less than before.

As per Dr Tripathi, the platelet count in the body decreases during any kind of fever, which leads to weakness in patients. However, as the fever subsides, the blood platelet count begins rising on its own. He advised that while small quantities of coconut water or papaya leaves can be consumed by the patient, excessive intake may be harmful. He further added that excess coconut water can affect the liver and lead to gastritis conditions and according to him, “it does not increase in platelet count.” Dr Tripathi urged people ‘not to believe in the misconception’ that coconut water intake can cure dengue. He said that medical consultation and medicines are imperative to treat Dengue.

Meanwhile, as the cases of Dengue increase in Lucknow, the demand for coconut water has increased and resulted in price hikes. It was available for Rs 50 and now, it is being sold for Rs 200.

Here are a few ways people can take precautions against Dengue:

Make sure that water tanks and containers are covered properly to prevent mosquito breeding grounds.

Make sure there is no stagnant water near your home.

Change the water inside the water cooler every week.

If you have an aquarium, keep larvivorous fishes in the tank as they feed on the larvae of the insects.

Put up a mosquito net while sleeping.

Wear clothes that cover your whole body to avoid mosquito bites.

Visit a hospital and consult a doctor, in case you have a fever.