PMD warns of possible dengue outbreak in October

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert about a possible dengue outbreak in October, stating that favorable conditions for the disease have developed.

According to the PMD, there could be a sharp increase in dengue cases, especially in ten major cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Hyderabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Larkana, and Multan. Other areas affected by post-monsoon rains are also at risk.

Dengue fever has heavily impacted public health over the past decade, particularly after the monsoon season. The period between September 20 and December 5 has become increasingly dangerous for dengue transmission, driven by specific environmental factors.

The PMD notes that dengue spreads when temperatures stay between 26°C and 29°C for three to five weeks, with humidity around 60%.

Rainfall above 27mm, combined with a delay of up to three weeks, further heightens the risk. Dengue mosquitoes are most active two hours after sunrise and before sunset, and their breeding stops only when temperatures drop below 16°C.

Based on historical data and the current climate outlook, PMD experts warn that conditions have been highly favorable for dengue since mid-September.

They have called on national health agencies and dengue control centres to take immediate action in affected districts. Authorities have been urged to stay vigilant and regularly check the PMD website for updates and guidance on controlling the outbreak.

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