KARACHI:
As in other parts of the country, there has been a significant increase in the cases of dengue fever in Karachi these days. While I urge the authorities to clear the localities of the standing rainwater so as to prevent the dengue cases from increasing, I also ask each and every one of us to do whatever they can to keep their neighbourhoods clean. Although dengue fever is not usually fatal, there may be complications that can cause death in extreme cases. So if anybody has a fever, rashes, joint pain or headache, he should consult the doctor immediately. There is also the need to use insect repellents, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and make arrangements to stop mosquitoes from coming inside.
The government must also ensure regular insecticide spray, especially in Karachi’s poor neighbourhoods. Media reports say that the Sindh government has released Rs480 million to 24 districts of the province for purchasing spraying equipment. However, no money has been provided for Karachi. The government must understand that it cannot ignore Karachi which is the most populous city of the country and which serves as its economic engine. The government must immediately come up with an action plan to deal with the rising cases of dengue fever in Karachi. Besides, the citizens should also realise their responsibility in the context.
Bisma Hanif
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, September 23rd, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
