Prof Dr Noor-ul-Eman
PESHAWAR: Dengue is no more dangerous than Malaria. Both are spread by mosquito. We have accepted Malaria with all its consequences with no fear at all but psychologically we are not prepared to accept the occurrence of Dengue. Other factor being effective therapies available for treating malaria while treatment of Dengue remains symptomatic which creates panic.
With improving diagnostic facilities, awareness in general public, effective preventive measures, this year patients admissions to tertiary care hospitals is far less compared to 2016 and 17. Masses are advised that panic need to be replaced by wisdom and wisdom dictates that we adopt effective preventive measures.
We need to reduce the chances of breeding the mosquitos through a simple mean of covering standing freshwater. On an individual basis, We need to reduce the chances of mosquito bites by wearing clothes that cover the whole body, using mosquito knits and repellents. Mosquito spray would reduce chances of Dengue at the community level.
The use of low-grade strip test is creating panic among masses. The general public must know that the same may please be confirmed by ELISA to confirm Dengue. Anyone tested positive by strip test must consult the appropriate health facility to confirm it by ELISA.
The author is Dean of Khyber Medical College (KMC).
