Alarming pneumonia cases grip KP: 93,000 children affected

PESHAWAR: A stark health crisis has unfolded in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where an estimated 93,000 children under the age of five find themselves grappling with the harsh impact of pneumonia, as reported by the provincial health department.

The gravity of the situation becomes palpable with a detailed breakdown of cases across various regions.

This year, Mardan takes the lead with a distressing tally of 14,900 reported cases of pneumonia, marking it as the epicenter of the crisis, according to data from the Department of Health. The situation remains dire in Lower Dir, where 12,000 young children are affected by pneumonia, presenting a grim picture of the health challenges faced by the province.

The toll continues to rise, with 11,000 cases reported in Haripur, 9,000 in Peshawar, and 8,500 in Swat, painting a concerning panorama of widespread health concerns. In Swabi, 7,000 children bear the burden of pneumonia, while Upper Dir reports 4,500 affected children, according to the latest report on the health crisis.

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This surge in pneumonia cases follows last year’s distressing statistics, with a staggering 127,000 cases reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Doctors suggested children should not be exposed to the cold weather and remain indoors. They also said the young ones must also be stopped from sitting in front of the heating system; specifically gas heaters. The medics added children should stay protected from the cold by wearing warm clothes.

The unfolding crisis underscores the urgent need for targeted healthcare interventions, increased awareness, and collaborative efforts to mitigate the impact on the most vulnerable members of the community.