ISLAMABAD: While 3,019 suspected cases and eight deaths from dengue have been reported during the ongoing year, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) of National Institute of Health (NIH) has issued an advisory regarding prevention and control of dengue fever.

On the other hand, 10 dengue cases have been reported in Rawalpindi from March to June and the number of hotspots for positive cases is 150.

The objective of the advisory is to sensitise human and animal health care authorities to further strengthen and improve the level of preparedness in prevention and control of the disease before the alert season.

According to the advisory: “Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes (Aedes Aegypti and Aedes Albopictus). It is endemic in almost all geographical regions of Pakistan and there are substantial evidences that its multiple serotypes are circulating in different areas of the country.”

“Despite patchy surveillance, a total of 52,929 cases and 224 deaths were reported in 2021, while in 2022, we have reported approximately 79,007 confirmed cases of Dengue with 149 deaths. This year, since January 2023, Pakistan has reported 3,019 suspected cases and eight deaths,” it said.

The statement said it was imperative to work on prevention while staying vigilant for detection of cases and ensuring preparedness to launch response activities for curtailing the transmission of dengue.

“This advisory is therefore, intended to facilitate the healthcare authorities and professionals in effectively dealing with the potential challenge during dengue season. The advisory also calls upon hospitals to build their capacity for management of patients, to keep rapid response arrangements in place, and to maintain regular liaison with relevant departments/stakeholders,” it stated.

Rawalpindi

As many as 150 first information reports (FIRs) have been registered against violators of dengue standard operating procedures (SOPs) while 24 people have been arrested.

This was highlighted in a meeting held on implementation of anti-dengue measures in Rawalpindi Division. Punjab caretaker Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Dr Jamal Nasir as well as Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha presided over the meeting.

It was informed that the number of hotspots in Jhelum was 1,667 while 173 FIRs have been registered so far. Dengue larvae were detected in 149 places. The number of hotspots in Chakwal is 1,166 and 887 in Attock. Speaking on the occasion, the caretaker minister said the dengue SOPs should be implemented 100pc.

Mr Nasir said that dengue can be defeated only by taking preventive measures, adding that the administration should play its role and special attention should be given to cleanliness inside and outside houses.

He said that dengue is a social problem and it can be defeated only with joint efforts. Seminars and walks should be continued to raise awareness about preventive measures against dengue.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2023