Dengue Alert Issued by Pakistan Meteorological Department

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has recently issued a dengue alert, signaling a sharp rise in dengue fever cases across the country. This increase has become evident over the last decade, with the post-monsoon season between September 20 and December 5 identified as a particularly high-risk period. During this time, favorable environmental conditions are expected to fuel the spread of the disease, raising serious health concerns.

Ideal Conditions for Dengue Transmission

According to the PMD, the transmission of dengue fever is most likely when specific environmental conditions are met. These include:

• Temperature Range: 26°C to 29°C
• Humidity Levels: Around 60%
• Rainfall: More than 27mm, with a lag time of three weeks after the rainfall

These weather conditions create the perfect environment for the Aedes mosquito, which is the primary carrier of dengue, to thrive and breed.

Peak Transmission Times

The PMD highlights that the most active times for dengue transmission are:

• Two hours after sunrise
• Two hours before sunset

Dengue-carrying mosquitoes are less active when temperatures fall below 16°C, which slows their breeding activity.

Post-Monsoon Season and Dengue Outbreak Risk

Since mid-September 2024, the weather conditions across many regions of Pakistan have become conducive to a dengue outbreak. The PMD has warned that the risk will be particularly high in October 2024. Major urban centers, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan, are considered to be at significant risk due to post-monsoon rainfall.

Preventive Measures for Dengue Control

In response to these alarming predictions, the PMD has called on all relevant stakeholders to take preemptive action to combat the dengue threat. This includes efforts by local and national health agencies and dengue control centers. The PMD encourages stakeholders to remain informed through their official website at www.pmd.gov.pk, which will provide updates and essential information.

Conclusion

As Pakistan enters the post-monsoon period, the country faces an increased risk of a dengue outbreak. The PMD’s alert should serve as a timely reminder for citizens and authorities to remain vigilant and take the necessary steps to prevent the spread of this dangerous disease.

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FAQs

1. What is dengue fever?
   Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the Aedes mosquito. It can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, can lead to life-threatening complications.
2. When is the dengue season in Pakistan?
   Dengue fever is most prevalent during the post-monsoon season, from September to December, when environmental conditions are favorable for mosquito breeding.
3. How can I protect myself from dengue?
   You can protect yourself by wearing long sleeves, using mosquito repellents, and keeping your surroundings clean and free from stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed.
4. Which areas in Pakistan are most at risk?
   Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar are considered high-risk areas during the dengue season.
5. Where can I find more information on dengue prevention?
   You can visit the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s official website at www.pmd.gov.pk for the latest updates on dengue prevention.