ISLAMABAD, Sept 7: The health departments have been advised to exercise high-level of vigilance to monitor suspected dengue fever cases in order to ensure prevention, early detection, proper management and containment of the disease.

The authorities have also been asked to enhance the capacity of hospitals and laboratories, and arrange spray of insecticides in accordance with the recommended protocols.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) has already issued countrywide alerts to the health departments regarding seasonal awareness through letters.

The NIH has also started providing technical assistance and diagnostic lab services, and is communicating results along with preventive measures and guidelines for timely management of such cases.

The health authorities and hospitals in public and private sectors have also been directed to arrange all medicines for their respective settings through specified procedures.—APP