Aizawl, August 14: A total of 5 people have succumbed to malaria in Mizoram since the beginning of the year, state officials reported on Tuesday. According to the latest data, 12,290 cases of malaria have been diagnosed between January and July, with all 5 fatalities hailing from the Lawngtlai district.

The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) convened a meeting to assess the current situation of malaria, dengue, and chikungunya infections in the state. Officials noted a significant increase in malaria PV cases this year.

In addition to malaria, Mizoram has seen a surge in dengue and chikungunya cases. At least 267 people have been diagnosed with dengue, while 3 individuals have contracted chikungunya since January.

Malaria cases are predominantly concentrated in four districts – Lawngtlai, Lunglei, Mamit, and Siaha – which share borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar.