ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of a potential dengue outbreak in October due to favourable conditions for the disease spread, indicating a significant rise in dengue cases, particularly in ten major cities across Pakistan.
As per the PDM, the cities that face the threat of sharp dengue surge include Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan. Other regions affected by post-monsoon rainfall are also at heightened risk, it warns.
Dengue fever has increasingly impacted public health over the past decade, especially during the post-monsoon season. The period between 20th September and 5th December is now deemed particularly dangerous for dengue transmission, with environmental factors playing a pivotal role.
According to the PMD, dengue transmission is triggered when temperatures range between 26°C and 29°C for three to five weeks, coupled with humidity levels around 60pc. Rainfall exceeding 27mm, with a lag of up to three weeks, further heightens the risk.
The mosquitoes that carry dengue are most active two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset, with breeding activity only ceasing when temperatures fall below 16°C.
Based on a detailed analysis of past data and the current climate outlook, PMD experts have warned that conditions have been highly conducive to dengue transmission since mid-September. The PMD has urged stakeholders, including national health agencies and dengue control centres, to take immediate preemptive measures in the affected areas.
Authorities have also been advised to remain vigilant and regularly consult the PMD website for updates and guidance on controlling the possible dengue outbreak.