Rawalpindi reports 107 new dengue sases

Outbreak shows no signs of abating despite efforts

RAWALPINDI:

The dengue outbreak in Rawalpindi shows no signs of abating, with 107 new cases confirmed in the last 24 hours.

This brings the total number of patients currently receiving treatment at allied hospitals to 311.

Potohar Town remains the primary hotspot, marked by persistent mosquito activity.

In total, the district has reported 1,847 dengue cases this season. Of the new cases, Potohar Town accounted for 58, followed by 16 in the Municipal Corporation limits, 19 in Rawalpindi Cantonment, six in Chaklala, five in Potohar Rural, and two in Gujar Khan.

The health department has reported nine fatalities attributed to dengue fever this year.

In response to the rising cases, authorities have intensified enforcement against violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

So far, 3,840 FIRs have been registered against individuals found harboring dengue larvae, 1,521 buildings have been sealed, and 2,673 fines have been issued, totaling over Rs176.38 million for repeat offenders.

Dr Asif Arbab Niazi, Chief Executive Officer of the District Health Authority, urged residents to take preventive measures, such as using mosquito repellents and eliminating standing water in their homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

He emphasised the urgency of seeking immediate medical attention if dengue symptoms appear, as delays can be life-threatening.

While the government has not yet declared a dengue emergency, Dr Niazi noted that efforts to control the outbreak are ongoing. In addition, indoor residual spraying and fogging will be conducted in 45 to 50 homes surrounding each reported case.

He mentioned that as temperatures drop with the changing weather, the risk of dengue may decrease, but he cautioned residents to remain vigilant and continue preventive practices.