A 16-year old girl died of dengue fever at a private hospital here last night, even as authorities claim that preventive measures are being taken to prevent its spread.

Hemavarthini, a Plus One student and resident of Puliyakulam in the city, had fever for the last few days and was undergoing treatment in a private hospital, police said today.

As the fever did not subside, her parents admitted her to another private hospital two days ago.

Blood tests proved that Hemavarthini was suffering from dengue and treatment began, they said.

However, she failed to respond to the treatment and died last night.

Already eight dengue deaths have been reported in the district in the last four months.

According to the government hospital sources, there are 20 dengue cases and 143 viral fever cases in the hospital.