More dengue cases surface

Three new dengue cases have been reported in Arya Mohalla and Chamanzar Colony of the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation’s union council no 45.

The health department and the district administration have expressed concern as the recent cases have pushed the tally of total cases to 24 in Rawalpindi district even though the official dengue season is yet to begin.

The three dengue patients have also been transferred to the District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) for immediate medical attention.

Meanwhile, during a third-party survey, a substantial number of dengue larvae were discovered in stagnant rainwater, both in open areas and within residential premises in Rawalpindi. Consequently, an emergency fumigation drive has been initiated in the affected locality.

Moreover, dengue wards have been activated in the Holy Family, Benazir Bhutto General Hospital, and District Headquarters Hospital, and dedicated isolation wards have been established for incoming patients.

Additionally, separate medical teams comprising doctors and nurses have also been appointed to exclusively serve each dengue ward.

Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has characterised the prevailing monsoon rains as conducive to the proliferation of dengue and has directed the anti-dengue teams to take urgent action in draining stagnant rainwater from open areas and cemeteries while also conducting spraying operations in these locations.

In light of the medical experts’ declaration of the dengue outbreak season spanning from August 1 to October 31, officials have mandated daily larvae search and fumigation throughout these three months.

Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Chatta has advised citizens to take preventive measures. They have been urged to ensure the daily disposal of water from refrigerator trays, pet bird’s water bowls, room coolers, and air conditioner pots.

He said it is essential to refrain from allowing water to accumulate in pots on rooftops and balconies adding that these precautions aim to minimise potential breeding sites for dengue mosquitoes and to curb the spread of the disease.

Furthermore, instructions have been communicated to all school principals across the entire district, mandating the removal of rainwater from roofs, grounds, and corridors of the educational institutions.

The non-teaching staff has been assigned the responsibility of ensuring the prompt drying of these areas.

School authorities have been directed to take immediate action in eradicating any unwanted vegetation or plants that may be growing within the premises. These measures are aimed at creating an environment less conducive to the breeding of dengue mosquitoes and promoting a safer learning environment for students.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 27^th, 2023.