Rawalpindi has reported another dengue case, taking the total number of infections in the garrison city to seven during the current season. Health authorities have increased surveillance and anti-dengue activities across different areas of the city to prevent further spread of the disease.
The latest patient is a resident of Dhama Syedan. The patient was brought to Holy Family Hospital and admitted to the dengue ward for treatment. Another dengue case had earlier been reported from Asghar Mall Scheme on September 9.
District Health Officer Preventive Dr. Jawad Zahid said two dengue cases have been reported in September so far. Four cases were detected in July, while one case was reported in March. The figures show that the number of reported infections remains significantly lower than last year.
Rawalpindi recorded 582 dengue cases during the previous year. In comparison, only seven cases have been reported during the current year so far. Health officials have therefore described the overall dengue situation in the city as being under control, while continuing preventive operations.
Authorities have deployed around 1,400 teams for indoor and outdoor surveillance across Rawalpindi. The teams are checking homes, buildings and open areas for possible mosquito breeding sites. They are also working to identify and destroy dengue larvae before they can develop into adult mosquitoes.
According to health officials, the highest presence of dengue larvae has been found in areas including Misrial Road, Afshan Colony and Allama Iqbal Colony in Rawalpindi Cantonment. These areas are receiving attention as part of the ongoing anti-dengue campaign.
Larvae have also been detected in several other parts of the city. These include Naseerabad, Morgah, Dhama Syedan, Pirwadhai, Dhamyal, Hazara Colony, Pindora, Dhoke Mangtal, Dhoke Ratta and Chak Jalaldin.
During the current campaign, dengue larvae have been detected and destroyed at more than 145,572 locations. These locations include both residential areas and open spaces where stagnant water can provide suitable breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
Authorities have also taken action against people and property owners who failed to follow dengue prevention standard operating procedures. Officials said 2,543 FIRs have been registered over violations. A further 652 buildings have been sealed, while 2,119 challans have been issued.
Fines amounting to Rs. 2.568 million have also been imposed on violators. Officials said enforcement measures are being used alongside surveillance and awareness activities to reduce mosquito breeding in the city.
The number of field workers has also been increased as part of the campaign. Health officials said identifying and destroying more breeding sites remains an important part of preventing additional dengue infections.
Residents have also been urged to support the anti-dengue campaign by keeping their homes, rooftops and surrounding areas clean. They have been advised to remove stagnant water from containers, rooftops and other places where mosquitoes can breed.
Health authorities have continued to monitor dengue activity across Rawalpindi as the current season progresses. While the number of reported cases remains low compared with last year, officials are maintaining surveillance because dengue transmission can increase when suitable breeding conditions are present.
The latest case has highlighted the need for continued preventive measures across the city. Authorities are focusing on areas where larvae have been found, while residents are being encouraged to eliminate standing water and maintain clean surroundings to help limit the spread of dengue.
Also read: Rawalpindi Records 19 Additional Dengue Infections Within a Day
