Sindh’s Delayed Action Deepens Dengue Crisis in Karachi and Hyderabad
SINDH, Pakistan, Nov 3 (ANI) – As dengue infections surge across Sindh, the provincial Health Department has come under sharp criticism for failing to act swiftly. Despite weeks of rising cases, the department only recently announced what it called a “proactive approach” to control the mosquito-borne disease—after dozens of preventable deaths had already occurred, according to Dawn.
Rising Death Toll and Disputed Figures
Between October 1 and November 2, families of victims reported at least 30 deaths—26 in Hyderabad and four in Karachi—linked to dengue fever. However, health officials have confirmed only six fatalities so far. The death of a student in Hyderabad even prompted criminal proceedings against doctors at a major government hospital and a faculty member from Liaquat Medical University, following a court order.
Government Reacts Amid Public Pressure
Public outrage and media scrutiny eventually pushed Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah to convene emergency meetings. He directed health officials to strengthen coordination and accelerate fumigation campaigns across affected districts.
Still, despite clear signs of escalating infections, the Health Department has yet to release complete data on dengue cases, raising further concern among residents and health experts.
The situation underscores the province’s slow administrative response and highlights the urgent need for stronger disease surveillance and preventive measures to avoid another health emergency.
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