Dengue Emergency in Rawalpindi: Rising Cases and Health Challenges in Pakistan
In Rawalpindi, Pakistan, the number of dengue cases has surged, with 96 new cases confirmed in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 3,368. The Health Department reports 11 deaths and 4,537 cases due to dengue larvae found in various locations. To combat the spread, 1,716 buildings have been sealed, and fines totaling PKR 19.85 million have been imposed on affected premises.
The Deputy Commissioner has declared a dengue emergency, noting a more dangerous strain of the virus. The healthcare situation in Pakistan, particularly in PoGB, is dire, with inadequate infrastructure, staff shortages, and water scarcity. Despite calls for improvement, the government has not addressed these issues, worsening the crisis.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed from Chilas highlights the rapid increase in dengue cases, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, with over a hundred cases reported in his hospital in just a few weeks.
Doubts Revealed
Dengue -: Dengue is a disease caused by a virus that is spread by mosquitoes. It can make people very sick with high fever, severe headache, and joint pain. It is common in places with warm, wet climates like Pakistan.
Rawalpindi -: Rawalpindi is a city in Pakistan, which is a country located to the northwest of India. It is close to the capital city, Islamabad.
PKR -: PKR stands for Pakistani Rupee, which is the currency used in Pakistan. It’s like how we use Indian Rupees (INR) in India.
PoGB -: PoGB stands for Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, a region in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its beautiful mountains and valleys.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a province in Pakistan, located in the northwestern part of the country. It is known for its mountainous terrain and cultural diversity.
Gilgit-Baltistan -: Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in northern Pakistan, famous for its stunning landscapes and high mountain ranges, including parts of the Himalayas.