Islamabad has reported 52 new cases of dengue in a single day, leading federal health officials to implement emergency protocols. The Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, has instructed officials to increase fogging operations throughout the city to curb further transmission.
The minister has ordered hospitals to establish dedicated wards for dengue patients and ensure a continuous supply of medications, diagnostic kits, and beds. He emphasized the necessity for public health facilities to be well-prepared for a potential rise in patients following the recent increase in cases.
Kamal mentioned that the government is coordinating measures to control the virus, which has surged after heavy rainfall created favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.
He pointed out that Bhara Kahu and other areas identified as high-risk are receiving prioritized surveillance, spraying initiatives, and precautionary actions. Public awareness campaigns are also being initiated to promote preventive measures at the community level.
The health minister urged district administrations to enhance sanitation efforts and eliminate stagnant water, which is a significant source of mosquito breeding for dengue. He encouraged citizens to adhere closely to the Ministry of Health’s preventive guidelines, such as covering containers with water and using mosquito repellents.
“The safety of public health remains the government’s utmost priority. We will employ all available resources to protect the population from epidemics and diseases,” Kamal stated, while calling on the media and civil society to assist with awareness initiatives.
The capital has experienced a consistent increase in dengue infections recently, reflecting patterns seen in other regions of the country where heavy rains have contributed to mosquito-borne illnesses. Health officials indicate that the disease presents a seasonal challenge, with cases usually rising during the monsoon season when water collects in urban and semi-urban environments.