Roadside barbers: Main cause of communicable diseases
The use of unsterilised equipment by roadside barbers in the twin cities is the main cause of spreading communicable diseases, including Hepatitis B and C.
Barbers have set up makeshift shops along roadsides in various localities including sectors G-6, G-7, G-8, G-9, F-6, I-8 and I-9 in Islamabad and in Faizabad, Pindora and Pirwadhai in Rawalpindi.
The barbers seldom care for hygiene while using shaving equipment. Most of the people avail their services due to lower rates.
Zahid said the people despite knowing that the razors, scissors and towels used by roadside barbers were not cleaned, they preferred to use their services for low rates.
Senior medical practitioner Dr Asif said the roadside barbers were the main source of spreading communicable diseases.
He advised the people not to visit such set up. CDA spokesman Asim Khichi, said that the health directorate raids roadside barber set ups to check their equipment.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 17th, 2014.