Count of dengue patients reaches 13 in Swat

District health officer advises people to cover food items and use bug spray at home.

MINGORA:

The number of patients suffering from dengue fever in Swat reached 13 on Tuesday, spreading panic among locals.

According to the district health office, six patients are currently admitted at Saidu Teaching Hospital in a separate ward. The remaining seven patients are either in Islamabad or have returned home.

The patients hail from Watkey Kas Road, Nawakaley, Malookabad, Rang Mohallah, Dakkhana Road, Makan Bagh and Amankot.



Swat District Health Officer Dr Abdul Khaliq said the situation is under control and there is no need to panic. “A dengue control cell has been set up and regular meetings are being held to follow up on the disease,” he added.

“All measures are being taken in accordance with the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and affected areas are being fumigated twice via anti-dengue spray.”

Khaliq also advised people to use bug spray in their houses and cover all food items including water containers. “People should keep their windows shut as a precaution.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 21^st, 2013.