Director of Malaria and Dengue Program Sindh, Dr. Syed Mushtaq Shah Lakhiari, said that cases of malaria and dengue increase after the rains. From January to the current month, 700 cases have been reported, of which one patient has died. A three-month supply of medicines provided by the Global Fund is available. The only way to prevent malaria is precaution. The Ministry of Health has directed to adopt precautionary measures for malaria prevention from September 20 to December 5. He expressed these views while addressing a press conference at the Press Club on Monday. On this occasion, DHO Dr. Sandeep, Civil Surgeon Pir Ghulam Nabi Shah Jilani, Dr. Ghulam Sarwar, Dr. Abdul Hameed, Dr. Mukhtiar, Deputy Director Dr. Beena, Mohan Sodo, Dr. Afshan, and others were also present.
Dr. Lakhiari stated that although incidents of malaria and dengue generally increase after the monsoon, their full focus is on controlling its spread. He mentioned that provincial health teams have tested 1.6 million people, of whom 200,000 have been confirmed with vector-borne diseases. A special dengue ward has been established for patients at the Civil Hospital.
Authorities urged citizens to take precautionary measures and not to let clean water accumulate, as it is a breeding ground for the dengue mosquito. They also recommended preventing the accumulation of dirty water and wearing full-sleeved clothing, especially during the morning and evening hours.
Discussing the local situation, DHO Dr. Sandeep reported that 21 cases of dengue were registered in Mirpurkhas division from January to September. Of these, 15 patients belonged to Mirpurkhas district. He advised that anyone suffering from the disease should isolate themselves to prevent further spread.
Civil Surgeon Pir Ghulam Nabi Shah Jilani emphasized the importance of seeking professional medical help. He strongly warned the public to avoid consulting quacks or self-medicating, as dengue can cause a dangerous drop in blood platelets and requires proper medical supervision.