Punjab government has extended the restriction of receiving dengue test fee of Rs90 in the private laboratories of the province till November 30. The facility of blood test free of cost will be available to the patients as usual in all government hospitals, dispensaries and other public health centres.
This was decided at a meeting of the emergency committee presided over by Punjab chief minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for reviewing the measures taken for eradication of dengue in the province.
Shahbaz said that Punjab government took timely steps for coping with the worst virus of the history, dengue, and not only a comprehensive strategy was devised for fogging, spray and elimination of dengue larvae but a vigorous campaign was also launched for including the people in the movement. Provision of best medical facilities to the patients was ensured at the hospitals and modern machinery, equipment and medicines were imported for the purpose. He said that the people associated with medical profession also had not much knowledge about dengue virus and its treatment.
A comprehensive system was evolved for the training of doctors, nurses and paramedical staff. As many as 3,827 doctors, family physicians and nurses were imparted training regarding dengue whereas first group of persons comprising 110 doctors, entomologists, nurses and other experts is leaving for Thailand on December 5 for dengue training. After Thailand, doctors and nurses will also be sent to Sri Lanka for training.