Govt bans outdoor swimming pools
Malik Mohammad 24, jumps in a swimming pool during his training in Kabul, Afghanistan. PHOTO: REUTERS
A ban has been imposed on outdoor swimming pools and fountains in the wake of an increase in dengue cases in the province. The Punjab government has also issued instructions to relevant authorities to take stern action, including registration of cases and arrests, over violation of dengue SOPs.
Punjab Chief Secretary Kamran Ali Afzal issued the instructions during a meeting held at the Civil Secretariat on Saturday.
The meeting reviewed the measures being taken to control dengue and decided to impose a ban on fountains and outdoor swimming pools.
The chief secretary said the protection of people's health and lives is the most important for the government. He said the government institutions and civil society must work hand in hand to eradicate dengue, adding that laxity on part of anyone could cause a failure in collective efforts.
He said more cases have been reported this year than last year. “The next 10 days are very crucial to control dengue, and if SOPs are not followed, dengue may turn into an epidemic, he mentioned.
The chief secretary asked the deputy commissioners to review the dengue situation daily and submit a report. He appealed to the citizens to supplement the government's efforts to control dengue, and ensure cleanliness and removal of standing water on rooftops and other places in and around their houses.
The chief secretary also issued instructions to start an awareness and community mobilisation campaign about dengue prevention.
The officials of the health department gave a detailed briefing at the meeting.
They said that so far this year, 560 confirmed dengue cases and two deaths have been reported in the province. In the last 24 hours, 23 new dengue cases have surfaced, and 96 dengue patients are undergoing treatment in hospitals.
Published in The Express Tribune, August 21st, 2022.