September 28, 2008	Sunday	Ramazan 27, 1429

KARACHI, Sept 27: The Pakistan Medical Association has urged the health department to ensure that fumigation is conducted in all parts of the city on a regular basis to deter the looming threat of dengue fever epidemic.

In view of the constant surge in the incidence of dengue fever in different parts of the country, particularly in Karachi, PMA Karachi General Secretary Dr Samreena Hashmi on Saturday asked the government to adopt a comprehensive preventive strategy.

Although dengue was usually witnessed in the winter the cases were reported almost all year round because the government had not accorded a top priority to the health sector, she observed, adding that simple preventive measures could help combat dengue fever feared to assume epidemic proportion in the city.

Dr Hashmi said the overall dengue fever-induced mortality was comparable to the international ratio of the cases in urban areas but it might be high in certain parts of the country. Supplementing her stance, she said: “Most of the hospitals in the country do not have the laboratory facility available, for sero-diagnosis of dengue infections.”

She warned that non-availability of platelets, intensive care monitoring and ventilators also contributed to increased mortality in rural areas which comprised 75 per cent of population.

“The PMA Karachi believes that people should be aware of the causes, signs, symptoms and treatment of dengue fever and dengue haemorrhagic fever,” she said.

She stressed that the government at all levels must be more vigilant and active to combat the disease as the season was going to change soon. All city areas, especially those inundated with water, must be fumigated with anti-mosquito sprays on a regular basis, she said, adding that sprays must have proper concentration of the solution to make the fumigation effective.

“Majority of the citizens have only heard of spray. They have not seen spray being conducted in their areas,” she lamented.

Besides, the PMA general secretary stressed that hospitals in the public sector must have laboratories, which were functional and efficient. She underlined the need for massive awareness campaign to sensitise public about certain rules to avoid the ailment.The rules were simple to follow, she said, suggesting that all water tanks, utensils and containers be covered. Stored water must be utilised and its container be refilled on a regular basis as the mosquito (Aedes Egypti) causing dengue throve on clean, stored water. Never allow water to stagnate around houses and apartments. Use anti-mosquito sprays or pour Kerosine oil on stagnant water wherever found in streets and roads. Use nets, coils and repellents, and avoid self-medication in case of high-grade fever instead see a doctor.

10 more patients hospitalized

Meanwhile, Sindh Health Minister Dr Saghir Ahmed has said that out of 737 dengue suspected patients, who reported at different hospitals this year, 219 cases had been tested positive, while 10 more patients were hospitalised during the previous 24 hours.

Four patients were admitted in Dr Ziauddin Hospital, three in Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, two in the National Institute of Blood Diseases and one in Civil Hospital Karachi, he added.

The minister said 13 patients suspected to have dengue were discharged after proper medical treatment.—PPI