Dengue cases in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, have surged significantly, with 96 new cases confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the city’s total to 3,368, according to ARY News on Saturday. The Health Department reported that the virus has claimed 11 lives so far, with 4,537 dengue-related cases linked to the presence of dengue larvae in various locations.
In response to the outbreak, authorities have sealed 1,716 buildings to prevent further spread. A fine of PKR 19.85 million has been imposed on properties where dengue larvae were found, as per ARY News. The Deputy Commissioner declared a dengue emergency across the district, noting that a more dangerous strain of the virus has been detected in patients.
Must Read: Taiwan Calls On China To Respect ‘Status Quo’ Amid Rising Tensions
Meanwhile, the healthcare situation in PoGB (Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan) has become increasingly dire, characterized by inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of medical staff, and severe water scarcity, as reported by the Pamir Times on Friday. Despite repeated pleas for improvements, the Pakistani government has consistently neglected these issues, leaving people to suffer or, in some cases, die.
The escalating number of dengue cases in PoGB presents a major challenge. The lack of clean drinking water, poor sanitation, substandard healthcare services, and insufficient medical supplies have exacerbated the situation. Without significant improvements in healthcare and environmental management, the ongoing health crisis in PoGB is likely to worsen.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed from Chilas told Pamir Times, “I have been working in the hospital for the past four years. There has been an outbreak of dengue, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, with cases increasing rapidly. In our hospital alone, more than a hundred cases have been reported in just the span of two to three weeks.”
Also Read: Iran Claims Hezbollah Behind Drone Attack On Netanyahu’s Residence
