Flood-hit Pakistan now battles dengue surge, records 896 infections in 2023

Sindh, August 29: The year 2023 has witnessed a concerning escalation in dengue cases across Pakistan's Sindh province, with reported cases reaching a staggering total of 896. The rapid propagation of this mosquito-borne illness, particularly noticeable during the month of August, has raised significant alarms, as reported by ARY News, a prominent Pakistani news channel.

Within the month of August alone, Sindh province documented a total of 731 cases of dengue infection. The breakdown of these cases includes 291 reported instances in Karachi's East district, 126 in Central Karachi, 79 in Korangi, 136 in South Karachi, 20 in West Karachi, 40 in Malir, and a significant 396 cases in Keamari.

Beyond Karachi, the outbreak has also struck other areas of Sindh, with Hyderabad recording 103 cases, Mirpur Khas reporting 31, Larkana witnessing 14 cases, Sukkur identifying 13, and Shaheed Benazirabad observing four cases.

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Amid the potential threat of heightened dengue fever occurrences during the monsoon season, Pakistan's National Institute of Health (NIH) issued an advisory. This advisory underscored the stark increase in dengue virus instances during the monsoon, necessitating a robust surveillance mechanism to curb the escalating numbers.

To combat the proliferation of mosquitoes that transmit the disease, the advisory highlighted the importance of environmental management and modification, aimed at preventing mosquitoes from accessing breeding sites. It emphasised the regular covering and cleaning of domestic water storage containers to prevent the formation of dengue larvae. In times of outbreaks, emergency vector-control measures, including the application of insecticides, were recommended.

For personal protection against mosquito bites during the monsoon season, individuals were advised to opt for full-sleeved clothing.

Dengue virus, transmitted primarily by female mosquitoes of the Aedes aegypti species, and to a lesser extent, Ae. albopictus, has witnessed swift global expansion in recent times. The urgency to address this escalating public health concern is evident, requiring coordinated efforts to mitigate its impact.

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