2024

Exchange

Tax

Cars

Diphtheria kills 16 in KP


diphtheria KPK

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is facing a challenging situation as at least 16 individuals have tragically lost their lives due to a diphtheria outbreak.

A total of 328 people have been affected by this disease, encompassing a wide age range, from 6-month-old infants to 68-year-olds.

Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by strains of bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae that make toxin. It can lead to difficulty breathing, heart rhythm problems, and even death.

The lack of anti-diphtheria serum in the health department has added to the urgency of the situation. Patients seeking medical care in hospitals are encountering difficulties due to the unavailability of ADCs, compounding the challenges they face.

KP govt orders special audit of hospitals outsourced by PTI

Cases of diphtheria have been reported in 28 districts across the province, with Peshawar, Kohat, Kark, Khyber, and Charsadda experiencing the most significant impact. Peshawar alone has reported 68 cases. The good news is that diphtheria is a preventable disease, primarily through the complete vaccination of children, an essential step in mitigating the outbreak.

To further bolster disease prevention and healthcare management, the province has initiated an electronic immunization registry program focused on children. This modern approach aims to streamline record-keeping and enhance healthcare in the region.

Despite the challenges posed by the diphtheria outbreak, dedicated efforts are underway to combat it and ensure the well-being of the community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The proactive measures taken, along with the ongoing vaccination initiatives, offer hope for a brighter and healthier future for the residents.

You May Also Like