THE announcement by the Punjab chief secretary to observe ‘Dengue Day’ across the province on July 23 is a good step to prevent the spread of dengue virus.

According to the plan, all the government and semi-government premises, along with educational institutions, will be swept for identification of dengue larvae in order to control the dengue virus.

In addition, seminars will be conducted in all 36 districts of the province to raise awareness among the people about this disease.

The purpose is to remain alert and vigilant during the current breeding season of dengue and invigorate the sanitary patrol teams to start dengue larvae sweeping activity in full swing. All this is a welcome step by the government, but we as individuals, also have some responsibilities.

Only then will we be able to curb the menace of the dengue virus. It is hoped that the public will also play its part, along with the government, to stop the spread of dengue.

Shehar Bano Syed

Lahore

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2016