Islamabad News: Dengue Cases Continue to Rise Despite Anti-Mosquito Campaigns

RAWALPINDI:
The ongoing anti-dengue drives in Rawalpindi and Murree have failed to curb the spread of the virus, with the number of confirmed patients continuing to rise sharply.

According to the latest update from health authorities, 51 dengue cases have been confirmed in Rawalpindi while 56 cases have been reported in Murree. Within the last 24 hours alone, five new patients were identified in Rawalpindi and three in Murree, highlighting the growing public health concern.

In comparison, August last year saw just one confirmed case in Murree and 48 cases in Rawalpindi, showing a significant year-on-year increase.

Health department data further reveals that 4,514 individuals were screened in Rawalpindi and 548 in Murree. Out of these, 51 tested positive in Rawalpindi and 56 in Murree, indicating that the infection rate remains alarmingly high despite intensified preventive efforts.

Schools in Rawalpindi Enforce Strict Dengue SOPs

As the situation worsens, the District Education Authority (DEA) Rawalpindi has imposed strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all government and private educational institutions.

Key directives include:

• Ban on chemical sprays inside schools and colleges.

• Mandatory full-sleeve uniforms; half-sleeve shirts are no longer allowed.

• Introduction of a daily “zero period” dedicated to dengue prevention activities.

• Appointment of a focal person in every school to oversee dengue control measures.

• Immediate clearing of wild grass, rooftops, and corridors to eliminate breeding grounds.

• Thorough cleaning of washrooms, with proper facilities including soap, towels, and buckets.

• Regular sanitisation of water tanks and daily replacement of water in air coolers.

In addition to cleanliness drives, schools have been instructed to conduct essay and speech competitions, quizzes, and awareness sessions on dengue prevention. Awareness banners are to be displayed at school entrances, while students are required to maintain neat and clean uniforms.

The CEO of DEA Rawalpindi, Tariq Mehmood, has made it clear that strict disciplinary action will be taken against any school failing to comply with the 26-point SOP.

Dengue in Rawalpindi and Murree – A Growing Concern

The spike in dengue cases in Rawalpindi and Murree reflects the urgent need for stronger public health interventions. Experts warn that unless preventive measures are followed rigorously—both in households and institutions—the number of cases could rise further in the coming weeks.

With dengue fever now posing a serious risk to students and residents alike, authorities are urging citizens to eliminate standing water, wear protective clothing, and remain vigilant in reporting mosquito breeding sites.