Karachi is facing a severe diphtheria outbreak, with more than 100 children reported dead this year from the disease, which is preventable through vaccination, according to health officials.
The Sindh health department revealed that the city has seen a dramatic increase in diphtheria cases, with hundreds recorded this year. “Karachi is experiencing an unprecedented outbreak of diphtheria, resulting in at least 100 fatalities among children,” a health department official stated.
All diphtheria cases are currently being referred to the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital (SIDH) for treatment. At present, over 10 children are receiving treatment there.
Experts have noted a significant shortage of diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) across Sindh, including Karachi, with the cost for treating one child reaching Rs0.25 million. “The only remedy for diphtheria is complete vaccination and antitoxin treatment,” they emphasized.
The Pakistan Pediatric Association (PPA) has confirmed the outbreak, citing failures in routine vaccination as a key factor and calling for an urgent investigation into the situation.
Despite the critical need, the diphtheria vaccine is in short supply, with only the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) providing limited doses to hospitals upon request. This year, 20 children have died at the SIDH, with many more succumbing to the illness in other facilities.
Last year, the hospital received 140 cases, with 52 fatalities.
Diphtheria, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae, was once a leading cause of illness and death among children globally but has been largely eradicated in many countries due to widespread vaccination. However, in regions with low vaccination rates, such as Pakistan, the disease persists, particularly where immunization programs are weak. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that incomplete vaccination and delays in booster doses can lead to a resurgence of this potentially fatal disease.
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