Rawalpindi has officially ended its anti-dengue campaign after reporting zero fatalities this year, shifting focus to the upcoming smog season. Authorities have concluded all dengue coordination meetings and are planning new eco-friendly measures for 2026, including the use of ducks to control mosquito larvae. Hospitals have dismantled dedicated dengue wards, signaling a transition from crisis response to preventive health measures.
During 2025, the district ran 1,361 anti-dengue teams that examined 21,835 patients, confirming 1,436 dengue cases. Inspection teams surveyed over 6.3 million households, detecting larvae at more than 207,000 locations.
In hotspot zones, over 1.8 million sites were surveyed, with 28,520 locations found infested. Cumulatively, authorities registered 4,781 dengue cases, sealed 1,927 properties, and issued 3,700 challans, collecting fines of Rs11.395 million for violations.
Read more: Police gear up anti-smog operations, Rs 1m fine imposed
The district administration is drafting a new anti-dengue micro plan for 2026. Early spraying of graveyards, larvicidal treatment of stagnant water, and encouraging duck farming in rural and peri-urban areas will be key strategies. Ducks naturally feed on mosquito larvae, offering a sustainable method to curb dengue before larvae mature, while also promoting eco-friendly practices in high-risk communities.
With dengue under control, public health attention is shifting to rising smog and dust-related breathing problems. Medical experts warn that respiratory issues are surging, especially among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing lung conditions. Authorities urge citizens to adopt precautionary measures during the smog season to protect their health.
Read more: Air pollution reaches severe levels, average rate records 257
The administration plans to continue awareness campaigns while monitoring pollution levels. Officials hope the dual approach—preventive dengue measures and proactive smog management—will safeguard the city’s health during winter months.