TAXILA: As many as 60 health professionals of Taxila and Wah were awarded shields and appreciation certificates for their exceptional contributions to dengue prevention and control during the recent season. These frontline health professionals included entomologists, health inspectors, dengue supervisors, sanitary patrols and lady health workers.

The shield and appreciation award ceremony was organised by the Punjab Health Department at Government College of Technology Taxila on Monday in which Assistant Commissioner Taxila Maria Javed was chief guest while Dr Jawad Zahid, District Health Officer Preventive Services, presided over the event.

Addressing the participants, Principal of Government College of Technology Engineer Naveed Haider Buzdar said, “The tireless fieldwork, vigilance and coordination displayed by these staff members have set a benchmark in public health operations. Their dedication is a source of pride for the entire government.”

Deputy District Health Officer Dr Shehzad Rasool lauded the staff, saying, “These awards are a tribute to the legendary services of our anti-dengue teams, who provide better health services in rural and under-served areas. Their commitment heals and protects people from the most vulnerable sections of society.”

Dr Jawad Zahid said their work during the dengue season exemplifies the spirit of service, discipline, and resilience required in public health emergencies He was of the view that the awards recognised the dedication and hard work of the health staff.

He said the recognition not only celebrates exceptional performance but also motivates continued vigilance and commitment to public health.

Addressing the ceremony, the chief guest said that recognising the efforts of the frontline workers not only boosts morale but also strengthens the district’s capacity to prevent and control vector-borne diseases in the future.

She praised the anti-dengue staff, especially sanitary patrols, for their tireless service, noting that their contributions were instrumental in protecting residents, particularly in vulnerable and high-risk areas of Taxila and Wah.

“The awards reflect the administration’s acknowledgment of the critical role played by frontline workers in ensuring community well-being and public health resilience,” she added.

Published in Dawn, January 20th, 2026