Rawalpindi Health Authority Dismisses 12 Workers Over Dengue Negligence

RAWALPINDI: The District Health Authority has dismissed 12 workers and supervisors for negligence during the ongoing anti-dengue campaign. Officials say strict action is being taken to protect citizens as the number of cases rises in the district.

Action Taken Under PEDA Act 2006

District Health Authority CEO Dr. Ehsan Ghani confirmed that over 448 workers were issued show-cause notices, and 12 were dismissed in the first phase under the Punjab Employees Efficiency, Discipline, and Accountability (PEDA) Act 2006.

A three-member inquiry committee, led by the district health officer, has been formed to investigate further cases of negligence.

“These employees repeatedly failed to meet their assigned targets despite warnings. Their inefficiency endangered efforts to stop the spread of dengue,” Dr. Ghani said.

Anti-Dengue Campaign in Full Swing

Currently, 20 new dengue patients have been reported, bringing the total in the district to 394 cases — still fewer than in the past two years.

Dr. Ghani assured that fumigation teams are active in sensitive union councils, while door-to-door surveillance campaigns are ongoing. He urged citizens to cooperate with health teams during visits to help reduce the spread of the virus.

“This is the peak season for dengue. With public support, we can bring the numbers down in the coming days,” he added.

HPV Vaccination Campaign Progress

Alongside the dengue drive, the district is also running the HPV vaccination campaign to protect girls from cervical cancer.

• On the fourth day of the campaign, 78% of the target was achieved.

• The campaign runs until September 27, aiming to vaccinate 395,609 girls aged 9 to 14 across Rawalpindi.

Dr. Ghani stressed the importance of this nationwide initiative:

“This vaccine is our best defense against cervical cancer, a disease that affects countless women.”

Challenges in Schools

Health teams are facing challenges in schools where parental consent is required. While most parents in communities are cooperative, some refusals stem from misinformation about the vaccine.

Dr. Ghani appealed to parents:

“We urge all families to support the HPV vaccination campaign. Protecting our daughters today means saving lives tomorrow.”