Pakistan, Epidemic Outbreak Begins... Healthcare System Also Collapsing

Confirmed Tens of Thousands of Patients with Diarrhea, Malaria, and Typhoid
432 Medical Facilities Nationwide Damaged... Health and Medical System in 'Crisis'

Pakistan, which suffered massive flood damage due to heavy rains since June, is struggling with the collapse of its medical and health system. Tens of thousands have been confirmed to have contracted diarrhea, malaria, acute respiratory infections, typhoid, and more. Photo by AP Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Juri] In Pakistan, where devastating floods caused by heavy rains since June have occurred, tens of thousands of infectious disease patients have been confirmed. Medical facilities across the country have been severely damaged, putting the health and medical system at risk of collapse.

On the 5th (local time), the WHO stated, "The floods in Pakistan have caused more than 1,290 deaths and 12,500 injuries," adding, "More than 33 million people have been affected by the floods, including 6.4 million in need of humanitarian aid, and about 634,000 are staying in displaced persons camps."

In particular, the WHO reported, "Many medical facilities have been destroyed or damaged in the floods," noting, "Among medical facilities nationwide, 432 have been completely damaged and 1,028 partially damaged."

According to the WHO, the outbreak of infectious diseases is also becoming a reality. Tens of thousands of patients suffering from diarrhea, malaria, acute respiratory infections, and typhoid have already been confirmed at clinics in the flood-affected areas. "Thousands of pregnant women are at risk of having to give birth at home instead of hospitals," explained Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari, WHO Regional Director.

Experts are concerned that if safe drinking water supply and medical services are not provided promptly, about 5 million people could be exposed to various infectious diseases within 4 to 12 weeks.

The WHO has classified the flood situation in Pakistan as a highest-level emergency and is responding with medical support and infectious disease monitoring.