Rawalpindi faces dengue outbreak risk as larvae found in 74,000 houses

Health authorities in Rawalpindi are warning of a potential dengue fever outbreak following the detection of mosquito larvae in tens of thousands of locations. Surveillance data from the District Health Authority indicates that larvae have been found in 74,392 houses and 13,016 other sites during indoor and outdoor inspections.

In terms of risk distribution, 141 of the district’s 189 union councils have reported a Breteau Index above three, signifying that larvae were found in more than 3% of inspected homes. Notably, 28 union councils have seen larvae in more than 10% of inspected houses, marking a significant deterioration in conditions compared to two months ago.

In response to the rising risk, authorities have intensified enforcement of anti-dengue safety measures. Since January 1, officials have registered 1,670 FIRs, sealed 440 premises, and issued fines totaling approximately Rs1,974,000 for violations of standard operating procedures. While six confirmed cases have been reported in the district so far this year, health officials are maintaining high surveillance levels to prevent a larger epidemic in Rawalpindi and the neighboring Islamabad region.