Pollen allergy: Inadequate staff and little medicines take potency out of camp

Pollen camp coordinator acknowledges shortage of funds, adds situation has remained same since camp started in 2004.

ISLAMABAD:

The ongoing pollen allergy relief camp in Aabpara might be working fine on paper, but it has been hit by shortages.

An official working at the camp at the Aabpara Community Centre said they do not have enough trained staff members, transportation facilities or enough space to meet demand.

Moreover, the camp is being run solely on the donations of medicines from pharmaceutical companies, which only provide for a limited amount of the required medicines and inhalers.

“Pollen allergies are a serious issue. The camp can serve as a great resource for consultation on preventive measures, while simultaneously providing medicines free of cost. Unfortunately, the government ignores its worth,” he said.

Pollen camp coordinator Shabir Ahmed acknowledged the shortage of funds, but added that the situation has remained the same since the camp first started in 2004. Between 2004 and 2011, the camp has served approximately 57,000 people suffering from pollen allergies. But since it lacks steroid inhalers (they are not donated by pharmaceutical companies) many patients are forced to pay for their inhalers, which can cost Rs1,000 or more.

Currently the government plans to run the camp until April 12, though it can be extended due to the rising pollen count recently, an official said. Published in The Express Tribune, April 8^th, 2012.