By: Kashifuddin Syed
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) health department on Sunday decided to launch a probe into alleged dengue deaths at a hospital in district Mardan.
Following the special instructions of Secretary Shahidullah Khan, the Directorate General of Health Services Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has initiated a comprehensive investigation into two recent deaths in Mardan, which are being reported in the media as related to dengue. This action comes in response to data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response System (IDSRS) and growing media coverage of the cases.
“We have a history of deaths associated with diseases like dengue and COVID-19, which necessitates investigating both cases,” said Secretary Shahidullah Khan.
According to the official directive, the District Health Officer of Mardan has been assigned to lead the investigation, supported by Frontline Fellows from the Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP). Their responsibilities will include a detailed review of the patients’ medical histories, verification of clinical management, and examination of other relevant factors. The goal of the investigation is to ensure strict adherence to all standard dengue treatment protocols.
The Directorate has stressed the importance of conducting a transparent and thorough investigation. It has directed that the investigation report and recommendations be submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Health as soon as possible.
The Health Department has assured the public that addressing their concerns is a priority and that immediate attention and cooperation will be given to this issue to maintain high standards of patient care. The public will be updated as more information about the investigation becomes available.
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