On Wednesday 01 September 2022, WHO & UNICEF warn Pakistan about the major health risks and the outbreak of many diseases including malaria, diarrhea, and dengue fever amid the current flood situation in Pakistan. WHO also releases $10 Million as an emergency fund for flood victims.
Due to the heavy monsoon rains in July and August, many areas of KPK, Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab have been hit by floods. More than 1,000 people have been killed while 1,500 have been injured.
Almost 161,000 people are living without homes in camps or under other temporary shelters. However, millions are deprived of basic healthcare facilities and medical treatment due to the devastating effects of floods. Many diarrhea and dengue fever cases have been reported in Pakistan. Because of this situation, there is a risk of many diseases and infections that must be given focus on a priority basis, said WHO.
“WHO is working with health authorities to respond quickly and effectively on the ground. Our key priorities now are to ensure rapid access to essential health services to the flood-affected population strengthen and expand disease surveillance, outbreak prevention, and control, and ensure robust health cluster coordination,” said Dr. Palitha Mahipala, WHO Representative in Pakistan, in a UN press release.
UNICEF also warns that over 3 Million children’s life is at risk due to the risk of waterborne diseases, in a statement issued on Wednesday. “When disasters hit, children are always among the most vulnerable. These floods have already taken a devastating toll on children and families, and the situation could become even worse”, Stated Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.
The government of Pakistan and other humanitarian institutes are establishing healthcare camps and control rooms in flood-affected areas. However, WHO is working closely with Pakistan health ministry to control the spread of diseases including cholera, diarrhea, malaria, dengue fever, and more. Also, the WHO insisted to ensure the availability of clean drinking water in flood-affected areas to avoid infectious diseases.
