KARACHI: Expressing serious concern over the recent surge in cases of dengue fever, diphtheria, malaria, and chikungunya in the country, particularly Sindh, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), urging the government to take urgent measures to check spread of these infections.
Dr. Abdul Ghafoor Shoro, Secretary General of the PMA, warned that the increase in these diseases presents a significant public health threat, urging the government and health authorities to take swift action to control the situation.
Given the surge in dengue fever cases in several cities in Sindh, the PMA stressed the need for proactive measures to control mosquito breeding and prevent further spread.
The resurgence of diphtheria cases is equally alarming, prompting calls from the PMA for heightened vaccination efforts to achieve broad immunisation coverage and safeguard at-risk communities.
The PMA has also highlighted malaria’s persistent risk in high-prevalence areas, calling for robust vector control programs and accessible, timely diagnosis and treatment.
With the recent chikungunya outbreak adding to the burden of infectious diseases, the PMA has urged preventive measures, including mosquito repellent use and environmental sanitation, to mitigate the spread.
The association proposed steps to address pressing health challenges. These include enhanced surveillance and reporting, with effective monitoring systems to track disease spread and enable timely interventions.
It has emphasized strengthened vector control, calling for intensified efforts to reduce mosquito populations and prevent outbreaks of diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya.
To safeguard against preventable diseases, the association also advocates for increased vaccination coverage, with expanded immunisation efforts aimed at protecting the population against diphtheria and similar illnesses.
Finally, the PMA highlights the importance of improved healthcare access to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for all affected individuals.
The PMA pledged collaboration with government and health bodies to address this public health crisis, and urged citizens to take necessary precautions for their own and their families' safety.