170 Children Contract Diphtheria in Sindh; 27 Fatalities Confirmed

APP

Islamabad: As many as 170 children in Sindh have contracted diphtheria in October, with 27 fatalities reported due to the disease, according to health department statistics.

Dr Shobha Lakhsmi, a prominent infectious disease specialist, warned on Friday about the rapid spread of diphtheria cases in Sindh.

Speaking to a private news channel, she highlighted the severity of the disease, which is a bacterial infection affecting the throat and airways.

Diphtheria can lead to severe breathing difficulties and, if left untreated, may result in complications such as heart problems or even death, particularly in young children.

Dr Shobha noted that diphtheria is highly contagious, spreading through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with infected individuals.

She stressed the importance of taking preventive measures, especially in areas with low vaccination rates.

“Vaccination is crucial in reducing the spread of the disease,” she urged parents, adding that they should ensure their children wash their hands regularly, avoid contact with sick individuals, and stay up to date with their vaccinations.