Karachi gripped by stomach diseases amid sweltering heat

With temperatures and humidity spiking in the metropolis, a fresh outbreak of gastrointestinal diseases has gripped the city, as public and private hospitals report a daily influx of patients suffering from vomiting, diarrhoea, and cholera.

According to health officials, the rise in stomach-related illnesses is being fuelled by the consumption of contaminated water and unhygienic food, aggravated by improper storage practices in extreme heat.

The Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) is receiving between 50 to 60 patients each day showing symptoms of food poisoning and dehydration, while the Civil Hospital is dealing with nearly 80 cases daily, sources in the Emergency Departments said.

Dr Imran Sarwar, Emergency In-charge at Civil Hospital, said most patients are suffering from severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. "Food spoils quickly in this heat, especially when it is not refrigerated properly. People are unknowingly consuming contaminated or expired food," he said.

Dr Sarwar added that in several cases, patients are brought to hospital three or more days after the onset of symptoms, by which time their condition has deteriorated. "In some critical cases, low cretonne levels have impacted kidney function, and the patients had to undergo dialysis," he added.

Health experts urge people to prioritise hygiene and preventive care during the ongoing hot and humid conditions. They recommend a light, easily digestible diet, including khichdi, yogurt, and bananas, along with regular intake of fluids.

Karachiites have also been advised to keep oral rehydration salts (ORS) on hand. In case ORS packets are unavailable, a simple solution can be made at home using a pinch of salt and sugar mixed in warm water.