Best Health Insurance Cover for Dengue in India
Dengue has become a growing health concern across India, with more people falling sick every year. The numbers speak for themselves. According to the reports, in 2023, India saw over 2.89 lakh reported dengue cases and 485 related deaths. While there was a slight drop in places like Delhi in 2024, where cases fell to 6,391 from 9,266 the previous year, the overall trend is still going up.
Looking ahead, about 2.78 lakh cases are expected in 2025, with some estimates going as high as 3.48 lakh. Dengue is more than a health issue because it also leaves families struggling financially. Treatment costs can touch ₹1.5 lakh during peak season. That’s a 150% rise in just three years.
Here are a few more reasons why getting dengue health insurance is worth thinking about:
With hospital bills rising, many people now turn to specialised dengue health insurance plans that offer focused coverage, even for those with basic or no health insurance. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the top dengue health insurance plans in India, talking about what they offer and how to choose one that suits your needs.
Top Health Insurance Plans for Dengue in India
| Features | HDFC ERGO Dengue Care Plan | ICICI Lombard Mashak (Mosquito) Rakshak Plan | Oriental Dengue Kavach | Star Comprehensive Insurance Plan | Tata AIG MediCare Premier | ManipalCigna ProHealth Prime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Other Pre-existing Conditions Covered | Primarily a dengue-specific cover; no broad PED coverage. | Basic cover for vector-borne diseases (dengue, malaria, etc.); not a general PED plan. | Dengue-only coverage; excludes broad PED coverage. | Comprehensive plan covers PED (e.g., diabetes, HTN) after waiting. | Comprehensive plan; covers typical PED (diabetes, HTN) after waiting. | Covers multiple PED after waiting (24 months). |
| Dengue Coverage | Yes - exclusive coverage for dengue hospitalization, OPD, day care. | Yes - includes dengue among vector-borne diseases. | Yes - specifically designed for dengue-related hospital expenses. | Yes - covers dengue under standard in-patient coverage. | Yes - dengue covered under normal hospitalization. | Yes - standard coverage for any infection including dengue. |
| Pre-post Hospitalization Expenses | ~15 days pre / 15 days post for dengue care (check policy schedule). | Typically 15 days pre / 30 days post (for vector-borne claims). | Generally 15 days pre and 15 days post-hospitalization. | 60 days pre / 90 days post for all covered ailments. | 30 days pre / 60 days post for covered ailments. | 60 days pre / 90 days post |
| Preventive Health Check-ups | No specific check-ups (pure dengue policy). | No routine check-up coverage; focuses on vector disease lumpsum. | No, limited to dengue treatment only. | Yes, annual check-ups or wellness benefits in certain variants. | Yes, typically once every policy year (depending on sum insured). | Yes, includes routine check-ups in certain prime variants. |
| In-patient Hospitalization Expenses | Yes, specifically for dengue (room rent, ICU, treatments up to the sum insured). | Covers in-patient treatment for vector-borne diseases (including dengue). | Yes, for dengue-related hospitalization only. | Yes, comprehensive for any ailment including dengue. | Yes, up to chosen SI (no disease-specific limit for dengue). | Yes, up to chosen sum insured, no disease limit for dengue. |
| Extended Hospitalization Allowance | No daily cash in base dengue plan unless specified as an add-on. | Typically lumpsum or daily benefit for vector disease - check policy wording. | Usually not offered (pure coverage for dengue costs). | Yes, daily cash add-on possible ("Hospital Cash" rider). | Yes, daily cash (hospital allowance) in some variants if chosen. | Some prime variants have daily cash or "hospital daily cash" rider. |
| Waiting Period for Pre-existing Conditions | Not applicable for dengue-specific coverage (no broad PED coverage). | Typically 30 days for new coverage, no separate PED coverage. | Not applicable to broader PED since it's dengue-only. | 24-48 months for declared PED, depending on condition. | 36 months typically for declared PED. | 24 months for declared PED. |
| Instant Cover | Yes for dengue from day one, except 15-day initial wait for dengue claims. | Usually 15-day or 30-day wait for vector-borne coverage. | Yes for dengue after a short 15-day wait. | No - standard 30-day wait for new illnesses (accidents covered day one). | No - 30-day initial wait for new illnesses. | No - 30-day new illness wait. |
| Coverage for Complications | Yes, any complication arising from dengue (within the policy limit). | Yes, if it's a direct complication of the vector-borne disease. | Yes, but only for dengue-related complications. | Yes, includes complications from any ailment if medically necessary. | Yes, for complications due to covered ailments (post waiting). | Yes, complications included after wait periods for PED if relevant. |
| Cashless Facility | Yes, in HDFC ERGO's network (10,000+). | Yes, ICICI Lombard's network (4,500-5,000+). | Yes, Oriental's network (4,300+). | Yes, Star Health's ~14,000+ network. | Yes, TATA AIG has ~7,200+ network. | Yes, ManipalCigna ~6,500+ hospitals. |
| Pre/Post Hospitalization | 15 days pre / 15 days post for dengue. | 15 days pre / 30 days post (vector disease coverage). | 15 / 15 days for dengue claims. | 60 days pre / 90 days post for all ailments. | 30 days pre / 60 days post | 60 days pre / 90 days post |
| Normal Waiting Period (for new illnesses) |
15 days for dengue claims (accident coverage not relevant). | ~15-30 days for vector-borne coverage (not broad illnesses). | 15 days specifically for dengue coverage. | 30 days (accidents day one). | 30 days | 30 days |
| Premium Range (Approx. Annual) |
₹250-₹600 (dengue-only, single adult). | ₹300-₹700 (mosquito diseases lumpsum). | ₹200-₹500 (dengue-only coverage). | ₹10k-₹16k (comprehensive plan for 30-year adult). | ₹9k-₹15k (30-year adult, basic coverage). | ₹9k-₹18k (for family, ~₹5-10L). |
| Coverage for OPD/Medication | Yes - OPD for dengue tests/consults included. | Typically lumpsum on diagnosis or partial OPD for vector-borne. | Yes, for dengue-specific diagnosis and treatment. | No OPD in base plan, add-on riders possible. | Some variants offer OPD rider or "MediCare Protect" add-on. | Yes, prime variants can have OPD coverage. |
| Network Hospitals | 10,000+ | 4,500-5,000+ | 4,300+ | 14,000+ | 7,200+ | 6,500+ |
| Claim Settlement % | 93-95% | 90-93% | 90-94% (Oriental's general ratio) | 90-95% | 90-92% | 90-92% |
| Unique Benefits | - Dengue-only coverage - Minimal premium - Includes OPD for dengue |
- Covers dengue + other vector-borne (malaria, chikungunya) - Lumpsum pay or cost coverage approach |
- Dengue-specific with small sum insured - Very low premium |
- High sum insured options - Maternity/newborn coverage - Many add-ons (hospital cash, etc.) |
- Global cover in some variants - "MediCare Infinity" add-ons for top coverage |
- ProHealth Prime might offer cashless OPD - No room rent capping in certain sub-plans. |
| Is Portability Available | No - Dengue-only micro insurance; typically not portable as a standard health policy. | No - Micro product for vector-borne diseases only. | No - Dengue micro insurance typically not portable. | Yes - IRDAI portability rules. | Yes - IRDAI guidelines. | Yes - IRDAI guidelines. |
| Sum Insured (in ₹) | ₹10k-₹1L typically for dengue coverage. | ₹10k-₹2L lumpsum or up to ₹5L for vector diseases (varies). | ₹20k-₹1L for dengue. | ₹3L-₹1Cr (depending on Star variant). | ₹5L-₹50L+ depending on variant. | ₹3L-₹1Cr or more (ProHealth Prime). |
| Entry Age | 18-65 years typically (some allow 5-65 if child is part). | 18-65 years typically. | 18-65 years (adult). | 18-65 years standard, child from 91 days if floater. | 18-65 years for adult. | 18-65 years, child from day 1 or 91 days if family coverage. |
| Policy Type (Indiv / Family Floater) |
Individual coverage for dengue only. | Individual lumpsum-based. | Individual short-term plan. | Both - Individual & Family Floater. | Both - Individual & Family Floater. | Both - individual or family floater. |
| Policy Tenure | 1 year primarily (renewable yearly). | 1 year (renewable) for vector-borne coverage. | Usually 1-year coverage for dengue. | 1 / 2 / 3 years (renewable). | 1 / 2 / 3 years (renewable). | 1 / 2 / 3 years (renewable). |
| Refill / Restoration Benefit | Not applicable (dengue micro cover). | Not typical for vector-borne lumpsum. | Not applicable for dengue-only plan. | Yes, automatically restores sum insured once used for a different ailment. | Yes, sum insured restoration once per year for unrelated claims. | Yes, typically unlimited restoration in prime variants. |
| No Claim Bonus | No NCB for a dengue-only micro policy. | No NCB for lumpsum vector-borne plan. | No NCB. | Yes, can accumulate up to 100%+ over claim-free years. | Yes, up to 50-100% additional SI over time. | Yes, up to 200% in prime variants. |
* Please read the disclaimer at the end of this page before purchasing this policy.
Our Top Recommended Dengue Insurance Policies
Dengue cases are rising every year, and the medical costs can catch you off guard. If you’re looking for insurance that can cover dengue-related expenses without burning a hole in your pocket, here are three health plans that stand out:
HDFC ERGO Dengue Care Plan
If you're living in an area where dengue is common, this plan is made just for that. The HDFC ERGO Dengue Care Plan focuses only on dengue, so you’re not paying for coverage you don’t need. The premium stays the same no matter your age, and you can keep renewing the plan for life.
Why It Stands Out
Full coverage for dengue treatment, both in the hospital and outside.
Covers things like room rent, ICU, medicines, tests, and doctor visits.
You can claim up to ₹10,000 for outpatient consultations.
No sub-limits or co-payments. You get full coverage without splitting the bill.
No health check-ups needed to join. There's just a 15-day waiting period.
Includes preventive benefits like mosquito repellents or nets.
You can add up to 6 family members under one plan.
Potential Limitations
The maximum coverage is ₹1 lakh. This might not be enough if complications arise.
The plan only covers dengue. Other health issues are not included.
You can’t use this plan for treatment outside India.
Star Comprehensive Insurance Plan
This one is broader. It covers dengue along with other diseases spread by mosquitoes. It’s a solid option if you want protection that goes beyond just dengue.
Why It Stands Out
Covers hospital stays, ICU, pre and post-hospital care for up to 60 and 180 days.
Daily hospital cash benefit, usually between ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per day.
Access to over 10,000 network hospitals for cashless treatment.
People aged 60 to 75 can buy this plan. There's no limit on renewal age.
You can add extra covers for critical illnesses or maternity benefits.
Potential Limitations
You can’t file a dengue claim in the first 30 days of the policy.
There are limits on room rent and outpatient consultation.
Treatments like cosmetic procedures or certain non-allopathic therapies are not covered unless mentioned clearly.
ManipalCigna ProHealth Prime Plan
If you’re looking for a health plan with more flexibility and extras, this is worth checking out. It covers dengue under its main hospitalisation benefits and gives you several ways to customise your policy.
Why It Stands Out
Offers unlimited restoration of your insured amount if you need to claim again, which helps if dengue strikes more than once.
Covers Ayurveda, Yoga, and Homeopathy if prescribed during your dengue recovery.
Includes non-medical costs like admin fees and consumables used during hospital stays.
Gives wellness rewards like discounts on premiums if you follow a healthy lifestyle.
Provides emergency hospital coverage even while you are abroad, up to 30 days.
Potential Limitations
Some serious dengue complications, like dengue haemorrhagic fever, may not get full coverage.
You need to buy separate OPD packages if you want outpatient benefits. These packages can cost extra.
The many customisation options can be confusing and may raise the premium.
Medical bills from dengue or malaria can quickly add up. With Freo Money’s affordable Vector Borne
Cover (starting at just ₹129!), you can stay one step ahead.
What is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection that spreads through the bite of an Aedes mosquito. If the mosquito is carrying the dengue virus, it can pass it on to you when it bites. The illness usually starts with a high fever and flu-like symptoms such as headache, body pain, and weakness. In most cases, people start feeling better within a couple of weeks. But if the person's blood platelet count drops too low, dengue can become serious and even life-threatening. That’s why it’s important to spot the symptoms early and get proper medical care.
What Causes Dengue?
If you’re trying to figure out what leads to dengue, here’s a quick list to keep in mind. These are the main causes you should be aware of:
What are the Symptoms of Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever doesn’t show up right away. It usually takes about 4 to 7 days after a mosquito bite for the symptoms to appear. In some cases, it might take up to 14 days. If you or someone around you is feeling off, here are some signs to look out for:
If the symptoms are getting worse or not improving, it might be more serious. In such cases, hospitalisation may be needed, which can be expensive.
That’s where Freo Money’s Vector Borne Cover can help. It offers protection and takes care of medical costs for those diagnosed with dengue in India. Having this kind of support can make a huge difference when you’re already dealing with an illness.
What is Dengue Insurance Coverage?
Eligibility Criteria for Dengue Insurance Cover
Benefits of Buying Dengue Health Insurance Policy in India
Covers Your Medical Expenses
Access to Cashless Treatment
Protects Your Savings
Helps You Save on Taxes
Gives You Peace of Mind
What is Covered Under Dengue Health Insurance?
Here’s what a dengue health insurance usually covers:
What’s Not Covered Under Dengue Health Insurance?
It’s just as important to know what’s not covered so there are no surprises later. Here’s what dengue-specific health insurance usually doesn’t cover:
How to Choose a Dengue Insurance Policy?
Picking the right dengue insurance policy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what you should look at before saying yes to any plan:
1
Coverage
Make sure the policy covers dengue fever. If it does, check what’s included under that coverage
2
Exclusions
Know what’s not covered. Some policies don’t cover pre-existing conditions, have waiting periods, or leave out specific treatments. Always read the fine print.
3
Claim Process
Understand the documents you’ll need and the steps involved in making a claim.
4
Network Hospitals
Find out if the insurer has partnerships with hospitals or clinics that specialise in dengue treatment.
5
Sum Insured
See how much coverage you’re getting. Is it enough to handle potential medical costs for dengue treatment in your area?
6
Free Look Period
Check if the insurer offers a free look period. This gives you time to review the policy and cancel it if you change your mind.
Skip the stress of hospital bills. Freo gives you affordable protection against malaria, dengue, and
other vector-borne diseases (starting at just ₹129!).
Don’t wait for a medical emergency to drain your savings. It’s quick, paperless, and gives you the
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