ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad has issued an urgent warning about the possible risk of a dengue outbreak following recent rainfall across the country, particularly in Balochistan, Punjab, and northern areas of Pakistan.
The NIH advisory seeks authorities and the public take immediate preventive measures to curb mosquito breeding in their vicinities.
According to the advisory, dengue thrives in warm and humid conditions, making post-rainfall periods a high-risk for virus transmission.
The health institute said the country recorded 28,427 dengue cases in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year, and warned that further infections could rise if precautions are not taken.
Dengue symptoms
Dengue symptoms include severe headaches, high fever, joint and muscle pain, eye pain and skin rashes.
The institute has urged people to use only paracetamol in case of fever while avoiding aspirin and NSAIDs, as they increase the risk of bleeding.
According to the advisory, severe dengue cases, particularly when platelet counts drop below 10,000, require immediate hospitalisation.
The NIH has urged general public to take strict mosquito control measures, including using mosquito nets and repellents, wearing full-sleeved clothing, and eliminating stagnant water to prevent mosquito breeding.
The public sector health facilities have also been directed to enhance laboratory facilities for dengue diagnosis.
The NIH has stressed the need for public cooperation and timely medical consultation to prevent severe situations and fatalities.
