PESHAWAR: Peshawar deputy commissioner Sarmad Salim Akram on Saturday said that all necessary steps were being taken to eradicate dengue in the provincial capital.

He issued the directives while chairing a meeting on dengue control.

He directed the officials to display banners in mosques and union council offices regarding dengue prevention.

Additional deputy commissioner (general), Peshawar Rao Mohammad Hashim, additional deputy commissioner (relief) Uzma Mukarram,

administrative officers, health department officials and officers from other relevant departments were in attendance.

Mr Akram said students in schools would be educated about dengue prevention during morning assemblies. He said additional teams would be formed for the anti-dengue campaign.

He directed the assistant commissioners to organise awareness campaigns in their respective areas.

It was highlighted in the meeting that the dengue mosquito bred in clean water, so it was essential to prevent water from accumulating in homes.

The people were asked to cover water tanks, keep air coolers empty of water, and avoid exposing water containers.

To further combat dengue, the participants advised people to install mesh screens on doors and windows to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes. Families, especially children, were encouraged to wear full-sleeved clothing.

Mr Akram stressed that collective efforts were required to eliminate the virus, and urged everyone to contribute to the cause.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2024