Weather-related diseases rise to alarming levels in Gilgit-Baltistan

GILGIT: The rapidly shifting weather patterns and climate change are taking a toll on the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan, with weather-related diseases, particularly among children and the elderly, reaching alarming levels.

November and December have been marked by dry spells and freezing temperatures, with lows dipping to -10°C, leading to a surge in weather-borne diseases. Speaking to HUM News English, Dr Wajahat Ali, Deputy Medical Superintendent and Head of the Pediatrics Department at the Provincial Headquarters Hospital, highlighted the health crisis exacerbated by the extreme cold.

“Cold air can be dangerous for everyone, but it poses a greater risk for individuals with chronic lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma,” he said, pointing to acute respiratory infections (ARI) as the most prevalent illness. “We are currently admitting three to four pediatric patients per bed due to the overwhelming influx, leaving us with no capacity to accommodate more,” he added, urging the public to take precautionary measures.

He said the hospital’s outpatient department (OPD) sees 250 to 300 pediatric patients daily, with around 200 cases of ARI. Among other weather-related diseases, COPD cases are also on the rise, with 10 to 15 admissions per day. “Patients discharged after treatment often return within a few days with complications,” Dr Wajahat explained.

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He linked the increase in respiratory ailments to climate change, noting that summers are hotter than usual, while winters have recorded unprecedented lows, with some areas reaching -17°C. He advised parents to keep children indoors, dress them warmly, and avoid overcrowding in confined spaces to prevent the spread of viral infections. He also debunked a common myth in the region, stressing that nebulization is not addictive but a necessary treatment for respiratory conditions.

Tragically, Dr Wajahat reported that 7-8 pediatric patients succumbed to respiratory complications last month alone. He emphasized the importance of breastfeeding and keeping infants warm to prevent further fatalities.

Ventilator and Medicine Shortages

When asked about the lack of ventilator facilities at public hospitals in Gilgit, he acknowledged the absence of ventilators for children under the age of five. However, he stated that a tender for pediatric ventilators is scheduled to be issued on January 7. He also emphasized the importance of taking extra care of elderly individuals, as they have weaker immunity.

Addressing the shortage of free medicines at the hospital, he explained that the procurement process involves issuing separate tenders for each medicine, which then undergoes a quality testing procedure before being distributed to patients. He noted that during the current financial year, the tender process was delayed.

Dr Wajahat said 70% of the tendered medicines have been received, but reports for some of these medicines were still pending with the drug testing laboratory, delaying their distribution for over three months. Additionally, he said, 30% of the medicines have not yet been delivered by the tender holders. He confirmed that a formal complaint has been sent to the health directorate, urging them to take action against the non-compliant suppliers.

Hopes with Changing Weather

Gilgit-Baltistan received its first rains and snowfall on Thursday. The gentle drift of snow falling from the sky brought along joy and happiness to the area. Similarly, parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir also received the first snowfall of the season, including Neelum, Arang Kel, Grase Valley, Shounter Valley, Taobat, Janoi, Sargan, Jagran Valley, Lawat Bala, Domelaan and Leswah areas.

With rain and snow, it is hoped that the extreme cold will abate, potentially easing the burden of weather-related diseases. However, the need for preventive measures and improved healthcare facilities remains urgent as the region grapples with the effects of climate change.