Aptly labeled as the poor man’s disease, Malaria is one of the most easily preventable diseases yet it still remains as Pakistan’s biggest health concern. With approximately 500,000 Pakistanis affected every year, it is one of the four major cause of death in Pakistan. But the shocking facts don’t just stop there; read to find why the situation of malaria in Pakistan is anything but consoling.
1- We share the highest burden of Malaria:
Regarded as one of the six priority communicable diseases, Malaria poses threat to millions with one million estimated and 300,000 confirmed cases reported every year. Along with Afghanistan, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Pakistan accounts for more than 95% of the malarial burden. Poor nations seem especially vulnerable due to lack of proper health infrastructure and governments’ lack of active and effective initiatives.
2- Climate change increases the risk of Malaria:
Climate change and one of its effect on the sustainability of life and our health is one of the most heated debates in the country. Global warming is one of the adverse reactions of climate change and vector-borne diseases, especially malaria and dengue, which tend to thrive more in the warmer regions. Since Pakistan is 7th most vulnerable country to climate change, the cost of health in Pakistan is expected to escalate with the climate changes as well as increase the epidemic potential of malaria in Pakistan.
3- 80% of cases are reported in FATA and Baluchistan:
According to WHO, the challenges to fight against malaria have especially escalated in areas of FATA and Balochistan where 80% cases of Malaria are reported. Lack of awareness and the movement of the Afghan refugees are cited as the main reasons for the malarial outburst in both regions. In regions where getting access to equal health opportunities is difficult, community participation through a system of strong health awareness programs is what is needed to shift the burden somewhat.
Looks like we need to buckle up and start taking vital steps to remedy the situation of malaria in Pakistan. At both governmental and personal level, small steps such as encouraging the use of insecticides and mosquito nets, urging communities to identify the places where malaria can breed as well as building relationships with clinics could be done to bring down the severity of malaria.
If preventative measures fail, then taking your loved one to the nearest clinic becomes mandatory. You can book an appointment with a top doctor in Lahore, Faisalabad and Islamabad through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT Doctor for any malaria-related concerns.
