KARACHI:
Dengue fever has long been a public health challenge in the country. The recent outbreak in Khuzdar town of Balochistan is a stark reminder of the need to take prompt and effective action. In 2023, Khuzdar reported an alarming surge in the cases of dengue fever. The current situation in Balochistan’s third largest city is quite serious with more than 760 cases having been registered during the ongoing month alone. There is need for an immediate action to prevent further spread of this deadly disease.
As is well-known now, dengue is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe flu-like symptoms, and in some cases leads to life-threatening complications. The recent surge in dengue cases has put a significant burden on our healthcare system and if left unchecked, it could lead to a full-blown epidemic. The reasons for this sudden increase are multifaceted, including increased mosquito breeding sites due to stagnant water, lack of awareness and education among the public, absence of adequate medical facilities, etc.
The government must combat this disease by taking an urgent action. It should launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign; increase vector control measures, including fogging and larval control; and ensure proper facilities to manage the influx of cases. We must act swiftly and decisively to contain this outbreak.
Bakhtawar
Khuzdar
Published in The Express Tribune, May 15th, 2024.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
