The Ministry of Health has issued an emergency health advisory, warning of possible outbreaks of cholera, typhoid, and diarrheal diseases in flood-hit areas.
According to the advisory, stagnant floodwater could trigger the spread of dengue, chikungunya, and malaria, posing serious public health risks. Citizens have been urged to adopt precautionary measures to protect themselves from infectious diseases. Health officials said fumigation and preventive campaigns were being intensified in affected regions.
Meanwhile, at least 19 new dengue cases were reported in Rawalpindi over the past 24 hours, raising this year’s tally to 178. Of these, 155 patients are currently under treatment at hospitals, including 25 confirmed dengue cases, while others are being monitored for suspected infection.
CLINICS ON BOATS
The Punjab government has launched Clinics on Boats to provide medical assistance in flood-hit areas across the province.
According to the provincial Health Department, 968 mobile clinics and medical relief camps have been set up to treat flood victims.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed health authorities to ensure the “best possible medical treatment” for all flood affectees.
WHO CONCERN
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has expressed alarm over rising epidemic diseases in Pakistan following the floods. A WHO report revealed that dengue cases have surged by 41 percent and malaria cases by 26 percent since the disaster.
The report further noted that cholera is spreading in Balochistan and Sindh, while skin infections, rashes, and snake and dog bites are increasing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It added that dozens of hospitals in flood-affected regions have been destroyed or severely damaged, crippling access to healthcare.
WHO has warned that without urgent measures, Pakistan’s already strained health system could collapse under the mounting burden of outbreaks.
