Cases of dengue likely to decline in Nov, says PMD

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Tuesday said that the cases of dengue fever are likely to decline by the next month as the country remains in the grip of the vector-borne illness, with hundreds of people contracting the disease per day. 

"Dengue is likely to subside in November but the next two weeks are still critical," a statement released by the Met Office.

PMD stated that it is expected that dengue cases may likely decline next month as per the current meteorological conditions, anticipated future seasonal outlook and trends of atmospheric variables.

However, it said that the next two weeks are still crucial as the prevailing atmospheric factors are favouring the conducive environment for the vector-borne disease.

The Met Office directed all the stakeholders to take pre-emptive measures to address the prevailing dengue situation in the country. It said that the national health agencies and dengue control centers are advised to stay updated on the latest information from the PMD website.

Hospitals across the country have received an overwhelming number of patients complaining of cold, fever and body ache due to a rise in the number of cases of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria, and chikungunya.

The situation has been dire in Sindh and Punjab especially, where thousands of citizens have been diagnosed with dengue this year.

As per the Sindh Health Department stats, nearly 1,600 cases have been reported so far in the province.

Meanwhile, at least 4,394 cases have been reported this year in Punjab.

Doctors suggest elimination of stagnant water in residential areas and keeping the water containers tightly covered. Besides that, the citizens are advised to use mosquito repellents and bed nets along with long-sleeved clothing.