PMD Issues Dengue Outbreak Warning for October

APP

Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning about a potential dengue outbreak in October, indicating that conditions conducive to the disease have emerged.

The department forecasts a significant rise in dengue cases, particularly in ten major cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan. Other regions affected by post-monsoon rainfall are also at risk.

Over the past decade, dengue fever has severely impacted public health, especially during the post-monsoon season. The period from September 20 to December 05 has become increasingly dangerous for dengue transmission, with environmental factors playing a crucial role.

According to the PMD, dengue transmission is triggered when temperatures remain between 26°C and 29°C for three to five weeks, accompanied by humidity levels around 60 percent. Additionally, rainfall exceeding 27 mm, combined with a time lag of up to three weeks, further heightens the risk.

The disease-carrying mosquitoes are most active two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset, with breeding ceasing only when temperatures drop below 16°C.

Based on a detailed analysis of historical data and the current climate outlook, PMD experts warn that conditions have become highly conducive to dengue onset since mid-September.

The PMD urges all relevant stakeholders, including national health agencies and dengue control centers, to take immediate preemptive measures in the affected districts. Authorities are advised to remain vigilant and regularly consult the PMD website for updates and guidance on controlling the outbreak.