In an effort to combat the growing threat of dengue fever, Punjab’s Health Minister, Dr. Javed Akram, has stressed the importance of adopting precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease. Speaking at a seminar organized by the Khalil-ur-Rehman Society focusing on dengue-related illnesses, Dr. Akram highlighted key strategies to mitigate the impact of this mosquito-borne infection.
During his address, Dr. Akram emphasized the significance of avoiding eye contact and refraining from using personal items of affected individuals to prevent the transmission of dengue. He also discouraged the use of home remedies for dengue fever and cautioned against the misuse of eye drops, which had led to shortages in the market and black marketing of essential eye medications.
Expressing concern, Dr. Akram lamented the exploitation of people through the sale of unnecessary medications. He clarified that there are no specific drugs for dengue fever, and the infection can be contained through quarantine measures. Stressing the importance of preventive measures, he stated that with meticulous adherence to precautionary practices, dengue could be effectively controlled.
Dr. Akram further highlighted the gender and geographical disparities in dengue cases in Pakistan. Contrary to global trends where dengue predominantly affects children, in Pakistan, it affects people of all ages, posing a significant challenge for the country. He criticized past political administrations for employing dengue sprays, which resulted in mosquitoes developing resistance. Countries that effectively controlled dengue did not rely solely on sprays but implemented comprehensive strategies, including community awareness, sanitation improvement, and proactive healthcare measures.
Additionally, Dr. Akram underscored the alarming rise of various diseases worldwide, emphasizing that today, diseases spread rapidly, causing more deaths than wars. He pointed out that viruses often transmit from animals to humans, leading to widespread infections. Therefore, he stressed the importance of global cooperation in managing such outbreaks, advocating for collective efforts in disease prevention and control.
In conclusion, Dr. Javed Akram’s insights shed light on the critical importance of awareness, prevention, and global collaboration in the face of dengue and other infectious diseases. His emphasis on community engagement and stringent preventive measures serves as a timely reminder for individuals and authorities to unite in the fight against the spread of deadly viruses.
