Dengue cases surge in Punjab

LAHORE:Dengue cases are on the rise in Punjab as 86 new cases were reported from various parts of the province during the last 24 hours.Majority of these cases, 74 in total, were reported in Rawalpindi, while Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Attock, and Mianwali each recorded two cases.

One case each was identified in Lahore, Kasur, Chakwal, and Sahiwal. According to health department sources, the total number of dengue cases was swelled to 1,044 after 377 new cases were reported in Punjab.

A spokesperson for the Primary and Secondary Healthcare Department said that hospitals were fully equipped with necessary medicines and treatments to combat the virus.In response to the spike in cases, the health department has issued an advisory urging citizens to maintain clean and dry environment to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes.

They called for public cooperation with health teams actively working to control the outbreak. A free helpline (1033) has also been provided for those seeking treatment or information, or to register complaints related to dengue. Health department officials stressed the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to curb the spread across Punjab.

Minister inaugurates nursery, blood bank

On the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the up-gradation of all hospitals inside the City has commenced. This was disclosed by Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Khawaja Imran Nazir during the inauguration of a new nursery and blood bank at the Govt Maternity Hospital New Karol on Sunday.

The minister said the addition of these facilities was a part of larger up-gradation process aimed at improving the hospital’s services.He emphasised that each hospital would be thoroughly assessed, and any missing or inadequate facilities would be provided on a priority basis. Khawaja Imran Nazir announced the opening of clinics for hepatitis and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) under the chief minister’s directive, further enhancing the healthcare system in the City. The newly-inaugurated nursery and blood bank were expected to significantly improve the quality of care for local patients. The minister added that up-gradation would help to manage the growing patient load in these hospitals, ensuring better healthcare access for the Lahorites. He also revealed that a phase-wise up-gradation of city dispensaries had begun, with consultants set to be appointed to strengthen these healthcare units.

During his visit, the minister toured various departments of the hospital, reviewing medical facilities and inquiring from patients about the availability of medicines, tests, and other treatments.CEO Dr Zohaib Hassan and MS were also present.