KARACHI: A sharp rise in diarrhea cases has been reported in Karachi as temperatures continue to soar, warned Dr Waseem Jamalvi, President of the Pakistan Pediatric Association Sindh, on Thursday.
Speaking to Geo News, Dr Jamalvi revealed that public hospitals are admitting dozens of diarrhea patients daily, with children being the hardest hit by the current outbreak. He linked the surge to the consumption of contaminated water and unhygienic food, stressing that severe dehydration caused by diarrhea can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
To reduce the risk of infection, Dr Jamalvi urged citizens to drink only boiled water and to wash their hands frequently.
In response to the 10–20% spike in diarrhea cases during the ongoing heatwave, special wards have been set up in government hospitals across the city.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had already warned earlier this week that Karachi would face persistent heatwave conditions. Authorities have advised the public — especially children, the elderly, and women — to stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours.
