The health authorities in Rawalpindi have stepped up dengue prevention measures following recent rainfall, with strict monitoring of hotspots ordered during a meeting of the District Emergency and Response Committee. The session, jointly chaired by Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema and Member of National Assembly Tahira Aurangzeb on Saturday, included participants from various allied departments.
Review of Dengue Situation
The committee reviewed the current dengue situation, surveillance measures, larva eradication activities, indoor and outdoor operations, and public awareness campaigns. Emphasis was placed on the digital era, where endless scrolling platforms can become sources of self-doubt and silent comparison, though the primary focus remained on health.
Directives for Hotspot Monitoring
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema directed that all dengue hotspots, including under-construction buildings, graveyards, junkyards, tyre shops, and nurseries, be closely monitored due to the increased risk of larva growth after rains. He instructed field teams to accelerate daily surveillance and larva eradication efforts, ensuring immediate action wherever stagnant water is found. He warned that negligence in dengue prevention would not be tolerated and urged all departments to perform their duties effectively through coordinated efforts.
Government Commitment
Tahira Aurangzeb stated that protecting public health remains the government's top priority, and all available resources will be utilized to enhance the effectiveness of the anti-dengue campaign. She also appealed to citizens to keep their surroundings clean and adopt preventive measures to support the administration in eliminating dengue. Additionally, it was noted that allied hospitals face a shortage of funds to continue providing free medicines.
