Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has taken a proactive step to control the expected dengue outbreak in the upcoming season by directing authorities to urgently prepare and implement the Dengue Action Plan 2025. On the Chief Minister's special directives, the Chief Minister's Secretariat has sent a letter to the Chief Secretary, emphasizing the need for immediate action.
The letter highlights that dengue has posed severe public health challenges over the years, requiring coordinated efforts from all departments for effective control. Past experiences have shown that structured and synchronized efforts during the dormant season significantly reduce cases during peak season.
It has been emphasized that the Dengue Action Plan 2025 should include a detailed schedule of activities for all relevant departments, covering preventive, promotional, and curative measures.
A month-wise framework should be developed to ensure year-round anti-dengue activities, including surveillance, vector control, environmental management, awareness campaigns, procurement of necessary resources, and healthcare response strategies. The role of each department should be clearly defined to ensure effective contribution throughout the year. A comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanism should also be put in place to track progress and meet the set objectives.
In October last year, 1,941 dengue cases were reported, raising the total number of cases to 2,368. The highest number of cases were recorded in Peshawar with 707 cases, followed by Lower Kohistan with 171 cases, Mansehra with 153 cases, Nowshera with 114 cases, and Hangu with 105 cases. Other affected areas included Kohat, Abbottabad, Charsadda, Mardan, Bannu, Swat, D.I. Khan, and Swabi. At the time, 48 dengue patients were undergoing treatment at hospitals, with 12 new admissions within 24 hours. Official records show two dengue-related deaths, though unofficial numbers may be higher. Due to limited hospital space, only serious cases were admitted, while most patients were advised home-based treatment.
The Health Department has intensified dengue surveillance and implemented various control measures, particularly in high-risk union councils. Additionally, lady health workers have launched a house-to-house awareness campaign to educate the public on dengue prevention. With the Dengue Action Plan 2025, the government aims to ensure early preventive measures to mitigate the outbreak and protect public health.
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