RAWALPINDI:
For the first time in five months, Rawalpindi recorded no new dengue cases in the last 24 hours, indicating a significant victory against the endemic.
As reported by health authorities on Friday, the downward trend in dengue cases has reached zero. Over the past week, the average number of new cases dropped to just two per day before reaching none. Currently, only eight patients are admitted to hospitals and will be discharged within a week.
In light of developments, special dengue wards in public and private hospitals have been converted back into regular wards, and hospital staff previously assigned to dengue duties have resumed their regular duties. The district administration has also stopped holding dengue-related meetings.
This year, Rawalpindi reported 6,607 dengue cases and 11 deaths. Authorities registered 6,283 FIRs after discovering dengue larvae, sealed 1,899 properties and issued 3,829 challans, collecting fines totaling Rs 2.34 crore.
While the campaign against dengue has officially ended, preparations for next year’s plan are underway. Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has directed health officials to procure more anti-dengue sprays and new equipment. The 2025 dengue strategy is expected to be finalized by February 15.
Additionally, the district is preparing for an anti-polio campaign in January after the polio virus was detected in wastewater samples. Dengue workers will also help in anti-polio and smog efforts.
