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RAWALPINDI, Jul 10 (APP):Rising dengue risks due to recent rains and cooler temperatures have put Rawalpindi’s health services on high alert, with comprehensive preparations completed to combat a potential outbreak. The favorable environment for dengue larvae breeding has heightened concerns, prompting the District Health Authority to finalize proactive measures to manage any surge in dengue fever cases.
The District Health Authority has launched public awareness campaigns, intensified surveillance, conducted inspections, and reserved dedicated hospital beds for potential dengue patients.
Dr. Asif Arbab Khan Niazi, CEO District Health Authority, told the APP on Thursday that all hospitals are equipped to handle the situation. “In the first phase, we’ve allocated 100 beds at Holy Family Hospital, 50 at Benazir Bhutto Hospital, and 30 at DHQ for dengue patients. If needed, our ramp-up plan is ready,” Dr. Niazi said.
He confirmed that all hospitals have the dengue test facilities and necessary medicines available. He further said that the focal persons were in liason, coordinated and emergency protocols were also in place.
“We’ve ensured all hospitals, including THQs, are fully prepared,” he added.
Amid the 2025 monsoon season, the health authority has intensified anti-dengue efforts, focusing on eliminating larvae breeding sites.
“To counter this threat, comprehensive indoor and outdoor surveillance campaigns are underway, prioritizing the destruction of larvae before they mature into mosquitoes,” Dr. Asif Niazi said.
Dr. Waqar, spokesperson Distt Health Authority confirmed APP regarding 10 confirmed and 2,941 suspected dengue cases in the city this year, with 221 suspected cases last week but no new confirmed cases.
Last week, authorities inspected 109,625 homes and 36,872 outdoor sites, identifying larvae in 2,596 homes (2,712 containers) and 724 outdoor locations (772 containers). Immediate action was taken to eliminate larvae at all positive sites to prevent future mosquito breeding. Dr. Waqar highlighted that high-risk areas like Pothohar Town and Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation reported higher larvae prevalence. The spokesman urged citizens to adhere dengue SOPs to avoid any surge the escalating dengue attacks.395