CM approves disease prevention programme

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has granted approval in principle for launching a programme aimed at curbing the spread of major diseases across the province.

The Chief Minister Punjab Disease Prevention Programme will focus on prevention of diabetes, tuberculosis (TB), AIDS and hepatitis, while a province-wide awareness campaign will also be launched about life-threatening illnesses.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the chief minister, where Secretary for Health and Population Nadia Saqib gave a detailed briefing. It was decided that the awareness drive would be led by the chief minister regarding prevention and treatment of deadly diseases.

The chief minister directed authorities to take necessary measures to curb illnesses and ensure implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in government hospitals, particularly to prevent epidemic and rapidly spreading diseases.

She also instructed the healthcare commission to monitor implementation of health SOPs in private hospitals and clinics, and ordered strict legal action against quacks across the province.

The chief minister emphasised that creating awareness about prevention of fatal and infectious diseases is essential. She added that early detection of symptoms is crucial.

Meanwhile, the CM said in her message on World Creativity and Innovation Day that smart IT solutions are being introduced in the health sector and other government departments. The Punjab government is promoting information technology, artificial intelligence and other modern technologies across the province. She said the province's first Nawaz Sharif IT City will be established in Lahore. In collaboration with Google, the government has launched free certification courses for more than 100,000 students, while practical measures are being taken to enhance IT training.

She said the introduction of electro buses has set Punjab's transport system on the path of innovation, while a fast train service between Lahore and Rawalpindi, along with new trains on local routes, is aimed at modernising the travel culture.