Dengue outbreak: Threat of epidemic looms large as summer approaches

Experts stress upon replay of preventive measures to avoid casualties in 2015

MINGORA: Summer is a harbinger of the dreaded dengue threat in Swat Valley. Health experts and social activists have stressed upon the replay of state-sponsored preventive measures to avoid casualties this season as well.

According to data from the district health office, the epidemic was first reported in the valley two years ago, resulting in 9,032 cases, with 30 deaths, in 2013. In 2014, the onset of its spread began on June 3, resulting in 300 cases and zero casualties reported.



The health office data states epicentres of the outbreak were areas with sanitation problems and where locals maintained water storage drums which would become breeding grounds for mosquitos.

Dengue troops

Health volunteers are prepared to counter dengue and eradicate it completely from Swat this year. “Last year we worked alongside the district administration, conducted door-to-door surveys and public awareness drives,” said Swat Scouts Open Group leader Akhtar Ali, while talking to The Express Tribune.

Officials say the department has already chalked out a plan to counter the epidemic this year. “We will try to fill the loopholes we missed in the previous season,” said Swat DHO Syed Ali Khan, adding different teams have been assigned with specific duties. “Lady health workers will help create awareness regarding the storage of potable water,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 28^th, 2015.