LAHORE: Houses where dengue larvae is detected will be marked with red warning stickers in Punjab, says provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir, ordering cases against government offices where larvae have been discovered.
The directive was issued during the sixth meeting of the Dengue, Infectious Diseases, and Disaster Management Committee at the Department of Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, also attended by Health Minister Kh Salman Rafique.
During the meeting, Health Secretary Ali Jan Khan provided a detailed briefing on infectious and epidemic diseases, with additional updates from the Special Branch, PITB, and other departments.
Stressing the need for heightened vigilance following recent rains to prevent the spread of dengue, Kh Rafique said, "Administration in sensitive districts must intensify their efforts. commissioners and deputy commissioners should personally oversee anti-dengue operations. Enhanced surveillance activities are necessary in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad."
He urged all secretaries to ensure the implementation of the meeting’s decisions, highlighting the health department's plan to combat dengue and other diseases.
Kh Nazir expressed concerns about a potential rise in dengue cases due to the recent monsoon rains, announcing the launch of a pilot project for volunteer services at the street and neighborhood level in Shalimar Town, Lahore, to combat dengue.
“Red warning stickers will be placed outside houses with dengue larvae,” he added.
Nazir also called for increased coordination with the Punjab Healthcare Commission to ensure the reporting of suspected dengue cases from private hospitals and laboratories, and urged better coordination with electric supply companies and railways.