PESHAWAR: A major chikungunya outbreak has been reported in the Ziarat Kaka Sahib area of Nowshera district, leading to a surge in medical emergencies and overcrowding at local healthcare facilities.
According to the Health Department, over 200 suspected chikungunya cases have emerged in the area over the past few days, overwhelming local medical facilities.
District Health Officer (DHO) Nowshera, Dr. Akram Shah, stated that patient samples have been dispatched to laboratories for formal testing.
So far, six cases have been officially confirmed, marking a critical health concern as these are among the first confirmed chikungunya cases in the region.
In response to the rapid spread of the mosquito-borne virus, health authorities have launched an emergency vector control campaign, with anti-mosquito spraying operations scheduled to begin systematically.
To raise public awareness, Dr. Akram Shah is personally visiting local mosques to educate community members on preventive measures, including eliminating stagnant water and adopting personal protective steps against mosquito bites.
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