LAHORE(National Times)- Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has granted approval to the launch of the “Disease Prevention Programme,” aimed at curbing the spread of major diseases across the province.

The programme will focus on prevention of diabetes, tuberculosis (TB), HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, while a province-wide public awareness campaign will also be launched to educate citizens about these life-threatening illnesses, says a press release.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by the chief minister here on Tuesday.

The meeting was informed that the campaign would raise public awareness regarding prevention and treatment of deadly diseases.

The chief minister directed the authorities concerned to take necessary measures to control such illnesses and ensure implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) in public hospitals, particularly to prevent epidemics.

She also instructed the Punjab Healthcare Commission to monitor the implementation of health SOPs in private hospitals and clinics, and ordered strict legal action against quacks across the province.

The chief minister emphasised that creating public awareness about prevention of fatal and infectious diseases is essential. She said early recognition of symptoms of these ailments is crucial.