Dengue Cases Surge in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Over 1,200 Infections Reported in September

PESHAWAR: Dengue fever continues to spread rapidly across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), with health authorities confirming 95 new cases in the past 24 hours. The latest figures push the total number of infections this month to 1,273, raising fresh concerns over the province’s dengue control efforts. High-Risk Districts Identified A recent report from the provincial health department highlights that Charsadda, Mansehra, Haripur, Peshawar, Kohat, Swabi, and Mardan have been declared high-risk zones for dengue. During the past day alone, 23 new patients were admitted to hospitals across these districts. District-Wise Breakdown for September: Charsadda – 256 cases (highest in the province) Mansehra – 214 cases Haripur – 148 cases Peshawar – 122 cases Kohat – 99 cases Swabi – 49 cases Mardan – 46 cases From January to September 2025, KP has reported 2,283 confirmed dengue cases. Out of these, 1,141 patients have recovered, while encouragingly, no dengue-related deaths have been recorded so far. Situation in Peshawar Most of Peshawar’s recent dengue cases are being reported from Tehkal, Palosai, Sethi Town, Gulbahar, University Town, and nearby rural areas. While many patients are treated through prescribed medication on an outpatient basis, several remain hospitalized for further care. Sources also revealed that major MTI hospitals in Peshawar are facing a sharp rise in dengue admissions, though official reports have yet to include this data. Seasonal Trends and Health Department Response Health officials noted that cooler districts are no longer seeing new cases. However, favorable weather conditions in high-risk areas continue to support the spread of the dengue virus. The health department has issued advisories to hospitals across the province, maintaining that the situation is “under control at the district level.” Officials expect cases to decline once temperatures drop further. Dengue Action Plan 2025 Earlier in March, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur directed authorities to prepare a Dengue Action Plan 2025 to curb the seasonal outbreak. Acting on his directives, the Chief Minister’s Secretariat sent a letter to the Chief Secretary stressing the need for proactive and coordinated measures against dengue. The letter emphasized that: Preventive steps taken during the dormant season can significantly reduce cases during peak months. A year-long, month-wise framework must be created covering surveillance, vector control, environmental management, awareness drives, medical preparedness, and procurement of supplies. Clear roles for all departments should be outlined to ensure an integrated response. A comprehensive monitoring and reporting mechanism should be established to track progress. Officials believe that structured implementation of this plan will play a crucial role in reducing future outbreaks across KP.

HEALTHPAKISTAN