THIS is with reference to the report ‘Rising cases of dengue expose govt inability to tackle disease’ (Nov 3). There has, indeed, been a drastic rise in the number of dengue cases across Pakistan in recent weeks. Being a healthcare professional working in intensive care unit (ICU), I have personally encountered a rather alarming stream of patients in serious conditions being brought in by their respective caregivers. This has become an everyday phenomenon that deserves sustained attention of those concerned.

A study has pointed out that by mid-November last year, over 20,000 dengue cases had been registered across Pakistan. This year, we are likely to cross that number by the same cut-off date because the cases have been increasing since the rather heavy monsoon season that we had a couple of months ago. As many as 30 lives have already been lost in Hyderabad and Karachi alone this year so far.

More than the weather, it is the accu-mulated water on the streets and in localities that acts as a perfect breeding ground for the mosquitoes. This is something that can be, and should be, easily handled by municipal authorities. Besides, as the report pointed out, fumigation drives on a consistent basis are urgently needed in cities and towns.

On their part, the people should take preventive measures. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends the covering of stored water, using long-sleeved clothes, using bed nets, installing insect screens on doors and windows, and avoiding stagnant water around homes and spaces. The symptoms of high-grade fever and body pain should not be ignored or taken lightly in these critical times.

Beyond prevention, patient recovery and management also require due attention. A dengue episode often begins with prolonged fatigue and joint pain. Once the patient has been stabilised under medical care, many have to visit physiotherapists for being able to fight off the aftereffects of dengue. The professionals help the patients in regaining strength to ensure early mobility.

What the relevant authorities need to do is actually quite simple; take care of innumerable pools of stagnant water by mobilising municipal resources. This should be done as a matter of routine, especially around the monsoon season.

Nida Rizvi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2025