Control and prevention of dengue halted

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Pakistan’s dengue fever statistics are rising each day. After 26 new patients were brought to the dengue ward at Malakand Agency Headquarters Hospital in Batkhela, the number of dengue patients has increased to 1850 this year.

At least 30 new cases of the deadly dengue fever were reported last week in Sindh. Private laboratories in the Umerkot district confirmed nine of the cases, whereas one case was registered at the civil hospital’s pathological laboratory in the same district. Locals of the area are complaining about the low interest of the government, the lack of facilities and the refusal of treatment by doctors.

According to Sindh Manager for Dengue Prevention and Control Program Dr. Masood Solangi, Karachi alone has recorded 1687 cases this year after 170 patients with dengue were recorded just last week. He further said that cases of the illness were also recorded in Larkana, Ghotki and Hyderabad.

Mr. Solangi explained that the disease increases after monsoons, though cases continue to emerge round the year.

He further said that the statistics and the pattern of disease allows the administration to ensure fumigation in regular intervals and that other departments work together to improve and maintain the sanitation system.

However, sources reveal quite the opposite of what’s happening. The Dengue Prevention and Control Program in Sindh has virtually been halted because the funds allotted for it have been put on hold for reevaluation. Meanwhile, medicine suppliers for the program are waiting for their payments.

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has taken notice of the alarming situation related to the outbreak of dengue fever and is directing officials throughout Punjab to eradicate the virus “by hook or by crook.” He has directed that every step should be taken for protecting the people from the disease. He said that special attention should be paid to indoor surveillance and effective monitoring of all steps taken to eradicate the virus should be carried out.

The chief minister issued these directions while addressing a video conference held at Commissioner Office Rawalpindi.

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