Dengue Fever Spreads Rapidly Across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa
PESHAWAR: Health authorities in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are struggling to control a worsening dengue outbreak that has infected thousands of residents across the province. Daily new cases continue to emerge in major districts including Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mardan, where two dengue-related deaths have already been reported.
Residents Forced to Rely on Home Remedies
Minhaj Uddin, a resident of Tehkal in Peshawar, revealed the alarming situation in his neighborhood. "Dengue fever has gripped our entire area. Almost every home has one or two dengue patients," he told The Express Tribune. "Every year our locality faces high risk, but the health department has conducted no fumigation, preventive measures, or awareness campaigns."
Minhaj questioned government claims about healthcare performance, noting that "in hospitals, every third or fourth patient is suffering from dengue." He expressed frustration that people are forced to purchase their own medicines and manage treatment independently due to inadequate public healthcare facilities.
Official Statistics Reveal Widespread Infection
According to the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System (IDSRS) report issued on November 2, 2025, the situation has reached critical levels:
- Total confirmed dengue cases in K-P: 4,836
- Active cases: 330
- Hospitalized patients: 1,795
- Recovered patients: 4,504
District-wise data shows Charsadda as the most affected area with 1,079 cases reported between January and November 2, followed by Kohat (563 cases), Peshawar (516 cases), Mardan (429 cases), Haripur (378 cases), and Mansehra (326 cases).
Government Response and Expert Warnings
Dr Gul Sartaj, Provincial Surveillance Officer at IDSRS, defended the government's efforts. "The K-P Health Department, IDSRS, and local administrations are trying their best to reach every area and eliminate mosquito breeding sites," he stated, noting that fumigation drives, larva elimination, and awareness campaigns are ongoing in vulnerable areas.
Dr Sartaj emphasized that community awareness remains the most critical factor in preventing dengue outbreaks. "Many people still believe dengue mosquitoes cannot breed in clean water. In reality, most larvae grow in stored household water. People must cover water containers and clean them regularly," he implored.
Public health experts warn that short-term measures are insufficient against the growing dengue threat. They attribute the crisis to climate change, poor waste management, stagnant water, and unplanned urbanization creating ideal mosquito breeding conditions. Experts urge implementation of a year-round dengue prevention strategy focused on environmental cleanliness, early surveillance, and community engagement.
