Punjab sees post-rain spike in Dengue cases, total reaches 447

Punjab recorded 27 new dengue cases in the past day, with Rawalpindi reporting the highest number

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At least 27 fresh dengue cases have been reported across Punjab during the past 24 hours, according to the provincial health department.

The Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department released the latest statistics, revealing that a total of 81 cases have been recorded in the past week, bringing the total number of cases this year to 447.

Of the new cases, Rawalpindi reported 19, while Lahore and Chakwal each recorded two cases. Bahawalpur, Multan, Muzaffargarh, and Mandi Bahauddin all reported one case each.

Health authorities have assured the public that all arrangements for dengue prevention are in place.

Public hospitals across Punjab are well-stocked with medicines, including those used for dengue treatment.

The month of September has been identified as particularly dangerous for dengue, leading to directives from the Chief Secretary of Punjab, the Commissioner, and the Deputy Commissioner to strengthen efforts in dengue surveillance.

Experts attribute the increase in cases to ineffective drainage systems, open water storages in homes, and a lack of disinfectant spraying. Climate change is exacerbating mosquito proliferation, and a lack of public awareness is also a factor.

Medical experts recommend preventive measures such as using mosquito nets, avoiding stagnant water, wearing loose clothing, and applying mosquito repellent lotion.

Previously, 14 people in Rawalpindi tested positive for dengue, raising the total number of confirmed cases this season to 145, a notable decline from 350 cases reported at the same time last year. Currently, 34 dengue patients are receiving treatment in government hospitals, while 110 have recovered and been discharged.

So far, 9,932 people with dengue-like symptoms have sought medical attention. Poor measures have been blamed for the spread of dengue as despite the tall claims of the district health department, dengue is not under control.

In addition to dengue cases, two cases of the Congo virus and 646 malaria cases have been reported.

After the recent heavy rains in Lahore and other area in August, the presence of dengue larva was detected by the surveillance teams, indicating the need for the provincial government to focus on protective measures.

Rainwater could not be immediately drained out from various areas of Lahore and also from the playgrounds of hundreds of educational institutions in the province.