Dengue Death Toll Rises to Four in Pinid

APP

Rawalpindi: The District Health Authority Rawalpindi has reported a rise in the dengue death toll, with four fatalities confirmed since last month.

The deaths, according to Dr Asif Arbab Niazi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the District Health Authority, were caused by delayed reporting to hospitals.

In a media briefing on Thursday, Dr Niazi announced that the dengue outbreak has escalated into an endemic situation in the district, with cases showing a gradual increase.

He urged citizens to adhere to dengue prevention protocols to safeguard their health.

“Ensure water tanks are covered, monitor health symptoms regularly, and seek timely medical attention,” Dr Niazi advised, emphasizing preventive measures.

Details of the casualties include Shayan, a 17-year-old who was admitted to THQ Kahuta on September 10 and subsequently transferred to BBH.

Unfortunately, he arrived too late to be saved. Tahira from Airport Housing Society and Samina from Shakrial also succumbed at Holy Family Hospital due to delayed treatment.

Dr Niazi stressed the importance of immediate consultation with registered medical practitioners (RMPs) and regular blood examinations, noting that a platelet count below 100,000 indicates dengue infection.

The CEO described the current dengue outbreak as an ‘endemic’ and highlighted that the district’s allied hospitals have a 300-bed capacity to handle cases. He called on the media and the public to assist in disseminating dengue-related information.

Dr Ehsan Ghan, DHO Dengue Control, reported that the Chak Jalal Din area, with a population of 21,000, is among the most vulnerable. Efforts are underway with 21 workers, two field hospitals, and two mobile clinics to monitor, diagnose, and respond to the situation.

Dr. Ghan attributed the rise in dengue cases to the favorable weather conditions for dengue larvae growth due to unusual rains this year. He urged citizens to exercise personal responsibility to mitigate the impact of the endemic.

In the past 24 hours, 57 new dengue cases were recorded in Rawalpindi, indicating a rising trend in infections.