LOWER DIR — Eleven dengue fever cases, including one doctor, have been reported in Lower Dir, prompting the Health Department to launch a special campaign against dengue and malaria, District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. Niaz Muhammad Afridi said on Monday.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Afridi said reforms were underway in the Health Department since he assumed charge. He suspended the salaries of 19 Lady Health Visitors (LHVs) for negligence and ensured doctors, LHVs, and paramedics performed duties through biometric attendance installed in 60 hospitals.
Highlighting progress, he noted that the recent polio campaign achieved 100% coverage through coordinated efforts with police and security agencies. Another campaign will begin on September 1 to vaccinate around 300,000 children under the age of five.
The DHO added that staff shortages at rural health centers (RHCs), basic health units (BHUs), and Tehsil Headquarters Hospitals were being addressed, though 56 medical officer posts remain vacant. He said medicines were sufficiently available in hospitals and urged the public to report complaints directly to him.
