ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning about a potential dengue outbreak this October. They indicate that ideal conditions for the disease have emerged.
The PMD predicts a significant rise in dengue cases, particularly in ten major cities: Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan. Regions affected by post-monsoon rainfall are also at risk.
Over the past decade, dengue fever has severely impacted public health, especially during the post-monsoon season. The period from September 20 to December 5 has become increasingly dangerous for dengue transmission. Environmental factors significantly contribute to the spread of the disease.
According to the PMD, dengue transmission thrives when temperatures stay between 26°C and 29°C for three to five weeks, accompanied by humidity levels around 60 percent. Furthermore, rainfall exceeding 27mm, combined with a time lag of up to three weeks, heightens the risk of an outbreak.
Dengue-carrying mosquitoes are most active two hours after sunrise and two hours before sunset. Breeding only stops when temperatures drop below 16°C.
The PMD urges the public to take preventive measures to reduce mosquito breeding. Keeping surroundings clean and eliminating standing water are crucial steps to combat dengue. Additionally, the public is advised to use mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing during peak mosquito activity times.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to mitigate the impact of dengue in the coming months.
Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates.