Punjab, including its capital city Lahore, is witnessing a surge in dengue cases, with three confirmed cases reported within the last 24 hours. Two of these cases emerged from Wagah Town, while the third was reported from Dataganj Bakhsh Town. This spike in cases has put health authorities on high alert as they strive to manage and curb the spread of the disease.
Currently, 14 dengue patients are receiving treatment in various hospitals across Lahore. To accommodate the increasing number of cases, 1,044 beds have been allocated specifically for dengue patients in these medical facilities. The provincial health authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that adequate resources are available for effective treatment and care of those affected by the virus.
Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir has emphasized the intensification of dengue surveillance efforts throughout Punjab, including Lahore. He stated, “We are stepping up our surveillance activities to identify and eliminate potential dengue breeding sites. Our teams are working around the clock to monitor and control the situation.”
In addition to the efforts by the health department, the district administration is also playing a crucial role in dengue prevention. Over the past 24 hours, dengue larvae were discovered at 497 locations within the city. The authorities have been proactive in their response, successfully destroying dengue larvae at 18,908 sites this year. Despite these efforts, there are still more than 20,000 dengue hotspots identified across Lahore, necessitating ongoing vigilance and action.
The provincial and district authorities are collaborating closely to tackle the dengue outbreak. Their strategy involves a comprehensive approach that includes public awareness campaigns, regular fumigation drives, and strict monitoring of known dengue hotspots. The public is being urged to take preventive measures, such as eliminating stagnant water sources and maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings, to help reduce the mosquito population.
Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir highlighted the importance of community involvement in the fight against dengue. He said, “While the government is doing its part, it is crucial for the public to participate actively in dengue prevention. Simple actions like keeping water containers covered, using mosquito repellents, and wearing protective clothing can go a long way in preventing the spread of dengue.”
The health minister also assured the public that the government is committed to providing all necessary support to combat the dengue outbreak. He urged residents to report any suspected dengue cases promptly and to cooperate with health officials during surveillance and fumigation activities.
The surge in dengue cases in Punjab, particularly in Lahore, has prompted swift and coordinated action from both health authorities and the district administration. With intensified surveillance, proactive prevention measures, and public cooperation, the efforts to control and eventually eradicate dengue from the region continue. The situation remains dynamic, and the authorities are committed to adapting their strategies as needed to protect public health and safety.
