Health authorities in Rawalpindi are preparing to launch an anti-dengue campaign in response to an increase in dengue-linked illnesses such as the common cold, flu, fever, and cough among residents.

Medical experts have already raised alarms, identifying these as potential signs of early dengue effects and warning that the upcoming dengue season could be particularly severe.

Health professionals have noted that this year there is an elevated risk of dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, both life-threatening conditions, according to a 2024 research report.

To tackle the issue, the Rawalpindi district has been divided into five zones, nine sectors, and 36 clusters under the new anti-dengue plan.

The Punjab Education Secretary has ordered strict measures to prevent the breeding of dengue larvae in all government and private schools, enforcing zero tolerance for mosquito growth.

A special circular issued by the secretary includes measures like immediate dengue awareness campaigns, banning students from wearing half-sleeved shirts, recruiting anti-dengue volunteers, displaying awareness banners in schools, and eliminating water leakage. Schools are also directed to destroy weeds and grasses, as well as to remove any standing water in playgrounds and corridors.

Additional measures involve spraying chemicals in ponds with stagnant water, cleaning garbage from vacant plots, monitoring water in under-construction buildings, and inspecting water containers in places such as warehouses, tyre shops, houses, and plazas.

According to the Ministry of Education’s official communication, the spread of dengue types 1 and 2 is considered a significant risk this season in the Rawalpindi division. Last year, the region experienced an invasion of the highly dangerous dengue 2 mosquito, with a 95% birth rate. This strain is especially harmful to children.

The Punjab Chief Secretary has also instructed all 43 government institutions to collaborate in combating dengue. Anti-dengue training has begun for officers and staff across departments, with a focus on identifying and preventing dengue larvae. This training will continue until February 15, just ahead of the official start of the anti-dengue campaign.