Dengue seminar

FAISALABAD Feb 21: Experts have warned of rising toll of dengue disease in the years to come keeping the climate changes in view if tangible steps and social mobilization were not ensured. As many as 20,000 people suffer from the dengue every year in the country. They addressed a seminar on “Advancement in Mosquito Management: From Past Strategies to Future Innovations’ at University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), bringing together experts and officials to discuss strategies for controlling mosquito populations and combating dengue. UAF Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Sarwar Khan called for collaborative efforts in order to control vector as vector borne disease toll was on the rise. He urged the public to implement the scientific approaches suggested by experts to reduce the mosquito population and prevent outbreaks. He said that Clean and Green Punjab; and Green Pakistan are the hallmark initiative that will bring the change. UAF Department of Entomology Chairman Prof Dr Wasem Akram underscored the critical role of entomologists in mosquito management across Punjab. He said that last year, more than 8000 people were affected by dengue in Punjab. He said that to prevent the spread of dengue, the environment will have to be kept clean so that the public can be protected from diseases. District Health Officer Dr Azmat said all possible measurer were being taken to control dengue. He emphasized the importance of integrating modern technology, continuous monitoring, and public participation in long-term dengue control efforts. CEO of Public Health Authority Asfandyar said that possible steps are being taken to control dengue. He presented a roadmap for dealing with dengue. He also called for creating awareness among the masses for minimizing the population of dengue. Dr. Shahid Majeed said that due to climate change, not only diseases are increasing but agriculture is also being affected. He said that it is imperative to convey the recommendations of experts to the public keeping climate change in view.