Anti-dengue drive intensified in Rawalpindi

Officials seal 138 buildings, register 413 FIRs

RAWALPINDI:

In response to the re-emergence of dengue cases from areas declared ‘clear’ by patrol workers, the Rawalpindi District Health Authority (DHA) has accelerated its anti-dengue drive.

According to official sources, as many as 413 FIRs have been registered, 297 challans have been issued, 138 buildings have been sealed, and fines totaling Rs92,000 have been imposed on violators so far.

During this season, the district has reported 37 dengue-positive patients, all of whom have been discharged from hospitals after recovering.

They said the district administration and health authority have intensified their efforts due to the increase in larvae spread in other cities like Lahore and Multan.

Despite warnings, larvae were found on rooftops, at junkyards, lawns, parks, government buildings, and abandoned structures.

Consequently, actions have been taken against owners and occupants of both indoor and outdoor locations where dengue larvae were discovered again.

DHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Ijaz informed that the anti-dengue campaign has been intensified, and around 2,800 personnel are actively working in the field.

Measures are being taken to detect and prevent the breeding of dengue larvae. Citizens are urged to take necessary precautions and ensure there are no conditions for dengue larvae to thrive in their homes.

Dr Ijaz added that fogging spray is being used to eliminate dengue larvae, and the anti-dengue activities in Rawalpindi district are under the scrutiny of Punjab Health Minister Dr Jamal Nasir, chief secretary, health secretary, commissioner, and deputy commissioner.

Anti-dengue campaign is being monitored on a daily basis.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2023.