Increasing Cases of Dengue and Malaria in Karachi Due to Pollution, Climate Change, and Lack of Governmental Spraying Measures
In Karachi, the number of dengue and malaria patients in hospitals is rising rapidly due to increasing pollution, climate change, and the absence of anti-mosquito spraying by government authorities.
Considering the situation, doctors have advised citizens to take special preventive measures to protect themselves from dengue. Due to rising pollution and lack of fumigation in the city, more than 200 patients with high fever, chills, and body aches are being brought to Jinnah Hospital daily, of which about 20% test positive for dengue.
Dr. Irfan Siddiqui, Deputy In-charge of the Emergency Department at Jinnah Hospital, said that due to climate change, there has been a 15 to 20 percent increase in the number of patients. Most of them are suffering from cough, flu, and chest infections, with common viral symptoms being observed.
He added that climate change has increased mosquito breeding, and around 40 patients are being diagnosed with dengue at the hospital every day. One or two patients have platelet counts lower than 50,000, which raises the risk of internal bleeding. Such patients are immediately given hydration.
Dr. Irfan further explained that dengue patients experience a sudden rise in body temperature up to 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, accompanied by severe body pain. Malaria patients, on the other hand, experience fever, chills, and sweating, especially at night.
He also mentioned that some suspected cases of Chikungunya are being reported. According to experts, using too many painkillers during dengue is dangerous as platelet levels are already low, and these medicines further thin the blood. Patients are advised to drink plenty of water, juices, and eat fruits to maintain fluid and electrolyte levels in the body.
