RAWALPINDI: The garrison city is grappling with a rising dengue fever outbreak, as six new cases were reported in three government hospitals, bringing the total number of infections this season to 78.
Currently, 17 patients are being treated across Holy Family Hospital, District Headquarters Hospital, and Benazir Bhutto Hospital, with eight in Holy Family, four in District Headquarters, and three in Benazir Bhutto.
For comparison, the number of reported cases last year by August 31 was 128, while 175 cases were recorded in the same period in 2022.
The new patients arrived from Kalma Chowk Pindora, Arya Mohallah, Jamia Masjid Road, Chak Jalaldin, and nearby areas.
Deputy Commissioner Calls for Public Cooperation
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema emphasized the crucial role of public cooperation in controlling the dengue outbreak. He stated, “It’s impossible to control dengue without the cooperation of the citizens.”
Dr. Cheema, along with District Health Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr. Asif Arbab Khan Niazi, has been actively monitoring the anti-dengue drive across various union councils. They urged residents to collaborate with anti-dengue teams to eliminate dengue larvae from their surroundings.
Dr. Cheema highlighted the need for heightened public awareness and instructed all relevant departments to expedite efforts to enhance the effectiveness of the dengue campaign. He also advised that areas previously affected by dengue should be thoroughly inspected and cleaned.
Recent Rains Pose Increased Risk
In light of recent rains, Dr. Cheema warned of an increased risk of dengue virus spread and instructed the health department to intensify fumigation efforts, particularly in low-lying areas of the city. Additional staff will be deployed to target areas where dengue mosquitoes have been identified during the ongoing campaign.
Enforcement Actions Taken
In the past week, the District Health Authority discovered dengue larvae at 761 locations. Enforcement measures have been taken, including fines totaling Rs1.9 million, 294 FIRs, 211 challans, and the sealing of 89 premises for non-compliance with dengue control standards.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant and cooperate with ongoing anti-dengue measures to help curb the spread of this potentially dangerous virus.
