33 million people affected by recent floods in Pakistan, the disaster has escalated into a severe health crisis, increasing the risks of waterborne diseases and disrupted healthcare access. The catastrophe has left over 1,300 people dead, displaced millions, and submerged one-third of the country.
The floods, caused by a severe heatwave that melted glaciers and heavier-than-usual monsoon rains, have created dire conditions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as a “monsoon on steroids” and a “climate catastrophe,” highlighting South Asia as a climate crisis hotspot where people are 15 times more likely to die from climate effects. Despite contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions, Pakistan bears a significant burden of climate change impacts.
Initially, drowning posed the most immediate threat as floodwaters ravaged towns and villages. However, as the waters continue to destroy crops and essential infrastructure, malnutrition and other health issues loom large, especially for the most vulnerable populations.
The floods have severely compromised Pakistan’s already fragile health infrastructure. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 1,400 health facilities have been damaged, making access to healthcare workers, medicines, and medical supplies a significant challenge.
Rise in Waterborne Diseases
A critical concern is the surge in waterborne diseases. Displaced individuals are living in makeshift camps with little access to clean water. Wateraid reports that half of all water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in the hardest-hit areas have been substantially damaged, leading to thousands suffering from dysentery. This intestinal infection causes severe diarrhea with blood, fevers, abdominal cramps, and life-threatening dehydration, primarily affecting children and the elderly.
Cholera, another waterborne disease, poses a significant threat. Already on the rise before the floods, cholera can cause severe dehydration, hypovolemic shock, kidney failure, and death if not managed properly. The bacteria causing cholera can spread quickly, especially in areas with compromised sanitation.
Vector-Borne Diseases
Stagnant floodwaters are expected to increase mosquito populations, heightening the risk of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. Malaria, transmitted by mosquitoes carrying the Plasmodium parasite, can cause fever, anemia, and severe complications if untreated. Dengue fever, also spread by mosquitoes, can lead to high fever, rashes, and in severe cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
Disrupted Healthcare and Immunization Programs
The floods have disrupted essential healthcare services, including immunization programs. Pakistan had already reported significant cases of measles and wild poliovirus in 2022. The destruction of infrastructure needed for vaccine distribution places children at increased risk of preventable diseases.
Additionally, nearly 19,000 schools have been fully or partially destroyed, exacerbating an education crisis and adding to the trauma experienced by children.
Impact on Women and Girls
Among the millions affected are approximately 650,000 pregnant women, with 73,000 expected to deliver in the next month. The UN Population Fund (UNFPA) reports that many lack access to necessary healthcare facilities, increasing maternal mortality risks. Menstruating women also face severe health risks due to a lack of sanitary products, often resorting to using contaminated materials.
Call for Immediate and Long-Term Action
The slow response to aid provision has drawn criticism, particularly as the disaster coincides with global economic challenges. However, neglecting those affected by climate catastrophes, primarily caused by other countries, is a critical mistake. The global response must address the immediate crisis in Pakistan and implement broader measures to combat climate change, as its impacts will eventually affect everyone.
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA
