The unofficial figure of total dengue patients reached 3,334 in the provincial metropolis, as 190 more patients were reported positive for dengue in various public and private hospitals of Lahore. The Punjab Health Department spokesman said on Sunday that mega cell separator machines had been installed at the Punjab Institute of Blood Transfusion, adding that all machines were in working condition and providing services to dengue patients round the clock. He said 63 mega units of blood had already been supplied free of cost to dengue patients admitted in government hospitals, where one mega unit cost around Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000. He clarified that one machine was air-locked temporarily and that was rectified within couple of hours and there is no issue of preparation of platelets. The spokesman further said that the institute has sufficient stock of kits and these kits are being provided to the patients as and when required. The spokesman also requested that the media provide guidance and generate awareness among the masses regarding measures that could be taken against mosquito bites.
