Islamabad ( The COW News Digital) The unprecedented floods affecting several regions of Pakistan have led to a sharp rise in infectious diseases, prompting the National Institute of Health (NIH) to issue a critical health advisory.
According to the advisory, stagnant floodwater and unhygienic conditions have created a serious public health risk. The NIH warned that waterborne and vector-borne diseases, including cholera, typhoid, and mosquito-borne infections, have a heightened likelihood of spreading in the flood-affected areas.
Health authorities highlighted that contaminated water and increased mosquito breeding are particularly concerning. “The floodwaters have not only contaminated drinking water but also created ideal conditions for mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like dengue, malaria, and other viral infections,” an NIH spokesperson said.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, hundreds of new cases of respiratory illnesses have been reported since the onset of flooding. Provincial health officials stated that over 2,000 individuals have already been affected by respiratory infections, while eye infections and other waterborne ailments are on the rise in the affected districts.
Eleven districts—including Abbottabad, Bajaur, Buner, Battagram, Dir, Mansehra, Swat, Shangla, Sawabi, Torghar, and Bannu—have been significantly impacted by the floods. Relief and rescue teams are actively working to contain the spread of diseases while providing medical aid and clean drinking water to affected communities.
Punjab’s Health Minister, Imran Nazir, visited flood-affected areas in Kasur and reviewed the situation along the River Sutlej. During his visit, he met with flood victims at relief camps and was briefed by Deputy Commissioner Imran Ali, DPO Muhammad Isa, and other officials about ongoing relief efforts. Minister Nazir directed authorities to take immediate steps to enhance medical and rescue operations to protect public health.
Health experts have urged citizens in flood-affected areas to avoid contact with contaminated water, maintain personal hygiene, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of fever, diarrhea, respiratory distress, or eye infections appear. The NIH also emphasized community cooperation in reporting potential mosquito breeding sites and ensuring clean surroundings to curb further outbreaks.
Authorities warned that without stringent measures and public awareness, the risk of widespread disease outbreaks could escalate further. Citizens have been advised to adhere to safety precautions, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas
