Punjab health department urges vigilance as Dengue cases rise in Lahore

LAHORE: In a concerning development, dengue cases continue to rise in Lahore, with 56 new cases reported across the Punjab province in the last 24 hours, according to recent data from the Punjab Department of Health Care. The cumulative number of dengue cases this year has now reached 7,451.

Breakdown of cases: The resurgence of dengue is not confined to Lahore alone. Rawalpindi reported 47 new cases, while three cases emerged from Chakwal, with single instances identified in Attock and Multan. These figures highlight the need for comprehensive preventive measures across multiple districts to mitigate further spread.

Health department's assurance: A spokesperson for the Punjab Health Department reassured the public of the province’s preparedness. “Hospitals have adequate stocks of necessary medications and are equipped to manage the influx of patients,” the spokesperson stated. This announcement aims to calm public concerns about hospital readiness amid rising patient numbers.

Public cooperation is the key: Health officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to prevent dengue transmission. Emphasizing the role of community engagement, they advise maintaining clean surroundings, removing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed, and cooperating with health teams operating in high-risk areas.

“Dengue prevention is a collective responsibility,” said a senior health official. “Eliminating potential mosquito habitats and adopting preventive practices can significantly reduce the spread of the virus.”

Helpline for public assistance: To further assist the public, the Health Department has established a dedicated helpline at 1033 for inquiries and to report dengue-related issues. This measure underscores the department’s commitment to ensuring accessible support and reliable information for residents.

Heightened awareness and preventive action: The department stresses the importance of public awareness and strict adherence to preventive guidelines. Simple measures such as using mosquito repellents, wearing protective clothing, and ensuring that water containers are covered can make a substantial difference.

Health officials reiterate that public cooperation is vital in combating dengue and safeguarding communities. The Punjab government continues to deploy resources and coordinate with local health units to ensure comprehensive coverage in efforts to curb the spread of the virus.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and participate in the preventive efforts to protect themselves and their loved ones from dengue.

For more information or assistance, please contact the Health Department’s helpline at 1033.