- Punjab, Pakistan, is experiencing a significant increase in dengue fever cases.
- High Incidence in Major Cities, Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Multan, Faisalabad, Gujranwala.
- Monsoon Season Challenge, thedengue outbreak is a recurring annual challenge in Pakistan.
In recent developments, several regions within Pakistan’s densely populated province of Punjab are grappling with a surge in dengue fever cases. Health authorities in Punjab are faced with the challenging task of containing the spread of this mosquito-borne disease. According to reports from Punjab health authorities, the region has witnessed a concerning uptick in dengue cases, with a staggering 70 new cases reported within the past 24 hours.
This surge has pushed the annual tally of dengue cases in Punjab to a troubling 1,415. Among these cases, over 500 have emerged in the provincial capital of Lahore alone. Additionally, within the last 24 hours, the country’s second-largest city, Karachi, reported 36 new cases.
Rawalpindi has also been heavily affected, with around 260 dengue cases reported this year, including 17 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. Several other cities, including Multan, have experienced a surge in new cases in the same timeframe, bringing the total count in Multan to 164.
Faisalabad reported five new cases, bringing their total to 109. Furthermore, Gujranwala reported four new cases, and additional cases were documented in Gujrat and Sheikhupura.
Dengue fever typically surges in Pakistan following the monsoon season. The initial symptoms include fever and body pain, but in severe cases, it can lead to hemorrhage. The virus is transmitted by the Aedes mosquito and can be fatal if not promptly treated. Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine available to prevent dengue fever.
It is worth noting that dengue is a widespread and severe health issue, affecting approximately 50 million people worldwide annually, with Southeast Asia being one of the hardest-hit regions. Authorities in Pakistan are working tirelessly to address this concerning outbreak and provide medical assistance to those affected.