LAHORE: The Punjab Health Department confirmed 79 new dengue cases across the province on Sunday, marking a slight decline, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
The Punjab Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department reported that Rawalpindi accounted for the majority of cases, with 65 infections. Four cases were recorded in Chakwal, and two in Sialkot.
Additionally, one case each was reported in Lahore, Attock, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Kasur, Chiniot, Gujrat, and Okara.
The total number of dengue cases in Punjab has risen to 6,838 in 2024, APP noted.
Health Department officials assured that hospitals are adequately stocked with essential medicines and prepared to manage the increasing number of patients.
Residents were urged to maintain cleanliness, eliminate stagnant water near their homes, and cooperate with health teams working in high-risk areas to curb the spread of dengue. Officials emphasized the need for public participation in preventive measures.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) describes dengue as a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While many infections result in mild or no symptoms, severe cases can lead to complications and fatalities.
WHO data suggests that nearly half of the global population is at risk of dengue, with 100–400 million infections estimated annually. The organization highlights that effective vector control is essential for prevention and control.
“Early detection and access to proper medical care significantly reduce fatality rates for severe dengue cases,” the WHO stated.
