Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Battles Rising Dengue Cases

The health department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is intensifying efforts to combat a surge in dengue cases, which have now reached 478 confirmed infections. This marks an increase from 392 cases reported in the preceding week, with 86 new cases emerging recently. Peshawar remains the epicenter with 177 cases, while Kohat has reported 151. The department is prioritizing public awareness initiatives and strengthening larvae source management to prevent further outbreaks.

Over 15,000 lady health workers have been deployed across the province to educate residents on eliminating mosquito breeding sites, particularly focusing on safe indoor water storage. Entomologists have also been stationed in high-incidence areas, and surveillance has been bolstered with rapid diagnostic kits. Despite the rising numbers, officials express confidence that widespread dengue outbreaks are not imminent, citing ongoing activities aligned with the Dengue Action Plan, 2026.

Challenges persist, including the non-sharing of crucial patient data by medical teaching institutions, hindering comprehensive strategy formulation for disease control. However, anti-dengue activities are progressing in all districts, with particular attention to Kohat, where former Afghan refugee camps are being cleared to eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds due to standing water.