ISLAMABAD: After a number of dengue cases have been reported in twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, dengue rapid response force (DRRF) has been activated, which will give training to the general practitioners in treating the patients.

DRRF was formed a few years ago on the directions of Chief Minister Punjab Mian Shahbaz Sharif and Vice Chancellor Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Medical University (Pims) Dr Javed Akram was made its head.

Dr Akram while talking to Dawn saiddengue cases were reported in a number of countries every year but the rate casualties should be zero.

“We have decided that not only awareness should be given to people but at the same time doctors should also be trained. If proper treatment is provided to a patient he will never die. So on Aug 25 we have decided to hold a training session for the doctors,” he said.

While replying to a question Dr Akram said this year a large number of patients were arriving from Peshawar.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Islamabad and Chairman, Capital Development Authority (CDA) Sheikh Anser Aziz on Tuesday claimed that the civic body was prepared to deal with any situation arising from dengue.

He directed all MCI and CDA formations to further gear up their dengue prevention activities. He asked them to focus on high risk areas along IJP Road and Islamabad Expressway. “All necessary funds will be provided to the formations concerned,” he added.

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2017