The Aedes aegypti mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water, is responsible for spreading the dengue virus.
KARACHI: The Sindh Health Department has released its latest report on the dengue fever situation, confirming a significant surge in cases across the province during October 2025. According to the official data, 439 new dengue cases were reported this month, pushing the total number of confirmed cases in Sindh for the year 2025 to 1,083.
The report highlights that Karachi Division remains the epicenter of the outbreak, bearing the heaviest burden of the mosquito-borne disease. Public health officials are urging citizens to take immediate preventative measures as the post-monsoon season provides ideal breeding grounds for the Aedes mosquito.
Official Case Breakdown: October 2025
The official statistics released by the health department show a clear concentration of cases in urban and semi-urban centers, with Karachi and Hyderabad divisions being the most affected.
Dengue Cases in Sindh (October 2025)
- Karachi Division: 188 cases
- Hyderabad Division: 154 cases
- Mirpurkhas Division: 83 cases
- Sukkur Division: 10 cases
- Shaheed Benazirabad Div: 3 cases
- Larkana Division: 1 case
Total New Cases in October: 439
This data confirms that Karachi alone accounts for nearly 43% of all reported cases in the province this month, making it a critical hotspot for health authorities.
Government Response and Official Statements
In response to the rising numbers, Sindh Minister for Health and Population Welfare, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, confirmed the figures and stated that the government is actively working to control the outbreak.
“The Sindh government is working seriously to curb dengue across the province,” Dr. Pechuho said in a statement. She added that anti-dengue measures, including fumigation campaigns, preventative spraying, and drainage improvement, have been intensified in all districts.
Key directives issued by the health department include:
- Intensified Fumigation: All districts have been instructed to enhance spray operations, especially in high-risk areas.
- Eliminating Stagnant Water: Deputy commissioners and district health officers are directed to ensure no stagnant water remains, as it is the primary breeding source for mosquitoes.
- Hospital Readiness: Dedicated dengue units have been established in all government hospitals to provide free testing and treatment facilities to patients.
Data Discrepancy: Official Figures vs. Hospital Reports
A significant point of concern remains the stark difference between the official government data and the figures being reported by major private and public hospitals.
Major Discrepancy Reported: While the official health department tally for the year is 1,083, reports from major hospitals and laboratories in Karachi and Hyderabad suggest the actual number of infections could be much higher. Some media reports, citing data from just a few large hospitals, have suggested that over 12,000 cases may have been recorded in the last six weeks alone.
Addressing this, Dr. Pechuho clarified the government’s position: “The Health Department maintains complete records of all confirmed dengue cases received from government hospitals. If a patient undergoes testing at a private laboratory, that report is not included in our official data.”
She emphasized that the figures released by the health department are verified and authentic, urging the public not to believe unverified information circulating on social media.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Dengue fever is preventable. Health officials urge the public to take the following steps to protect themselves:
- Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly check and empty any containers that hold water, such as flowerpots, old tires, buckets, and coolers.
- Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply EPA-registered mosquito repellent on exposed skin.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk).
- Secure Your Home: Use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out. Consider using a mosquito net at night.
- Seek Medical Help: If you or a family member experience high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, or joint and muscle pain, consult a doctor immediately.
