Skin disease outbreak sparks health alert in Sindh

The Sindh Health Department has stepped up measures in response to a recent outbreak of a skin disease in the province, officials said on Tuesday.

A high-level meeting chaired by the director general of the Provincial Health Department was held, with the in-charge of the PDSRU unit, the director of the Public Health Reference Lab, and other relevant officials in attendance. The meeting reviewed the current situation and outlined urgent steps to contain the spread of the disease.

The provincial health minister directed that surveillance across Sindh be tightened and preventive measures be strengthened in all districts. According to the health secretary, seven cases have been reported in Khairpur, including five confirmed deaths, raising serious concern among health authorities.

The private health facility where the outbreak initially emerged has been immediately sealed as a precautionary measure. Local awareness campaigns have been launched in affected areas to educate residents about preventive practices and safety measures.

The Health Department has placed nearly 2,500 health facilities on alert and activated the provincial surveillance system. Around 100 infectious disease wards are being set up in major hospitals, and emergency information desks will be established to provide timely updates and guidance.

The health minister has further instructed that every district hospital establish an infectious disease ward immediately to ensure timely medical care for suspected patients. This proactive approach aims to contain the outbreak and prevent further loss of life across the province.