The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert regarding a potential dengue outbreak in 10 major cities across the country by October. The cities at risk include Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan.
According to the PMD, dengue cases may increase in areas affected by post-monsoon rains, with the infection already spreading since mid-September. The department noted that over the past decade, a spike in dengue virus cases has been observed between September 20 and December 5 following the monsoon season.
The PMD highlighted that the dengue virus becomes particularly active when temperatures range between 26°C and 29°C, and the environment becomes more favorable when humidity levels approach 60%.
“All stakeholders should take proactive measures to prevent the spread of dengue,” the department emphasized in its statement.
Pakistan, especially Punjab, has been experiencing a surge in dengue cases, with hundreds reported weekly. In response, the Health Department has issued an advisory, urging citizens to keep their surroundings clean and dry to mitigate the spread of the virus.
