Panjgur: Several new dengue cases have been reported in Panjgur, prompting swift action from the local health authorities.
Speaking to journalists alongside Medical Superintendent (MS) of Teaching Hospital Panjgur, Dr. Wazir Ahmed Baloch, District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. Abid Reki confirmed the presence of dengue virus in the district.
He said that 24 cases were detected in the hospital’s laboratory, while 20 additional cases were reported by private laboratories.
However, most of the affected individuals had recently traveled from other regions, particularly Karachi.
Dr. Reki informed that a special health team from Quetta will arrive in Panjgur tomorrow to assist in preventive efforts.
An emergency dengue ward has already been established at the Teaching Hospital. He clarified that no dengue patients are currently admitted to the hospital, as most individuals only undergo testing before returning home.
The hospital, he said, is fully equipped to diagnose and treat dengue cases. The incoming health team from Quetta will further strengthen local efforts.
He added that many people who tested positive for dengue had recently traveled from Karachi.
The Panjgur Health Department is taking all possible measures to contain the spread of the virus and will soon launch a large-scale fumigation campaign across different areas to prevent further transmission.
Over the past two years, Pakistan has continued to face recurring outbreaks of dengue fever, especially during and after the monsoon season.
In 2024, more than 20,000 dengue cases and at least 10 deaths were reported nationwide, with Balochistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa being the most affected regions.
In 2022, the situation was more severe, as around 26,000 confirmed cases and 62 deaths were recorded.
Despite improved awareness and medical facilities, challenges remain due to poor sanitation, stagnant water, and inconsistent data reporting across provinces.
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Continuous preventive measures and public cooperation are essential to control dengue outbreaks.
