Diphtheria claims 13 children in Sindh as suspecte…
Karachi: Health authorities have raised concerns over the increasing number of diphtheria cases in Sindh after 13 children died from the infectious disease at the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital in Karachi’s NIPA area this year.
The latest figures have intensified public health concerns, coming amid a rise in other infectious diseases across the province. According to hospital data, 30 diphtheria cases have been reported at the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital so far in 2026, with 13 children succumbing to the illness.
Nationwide surveillance data shows that Pakistan recorded 308 suspected diphtheria cases between January and June this year. Sindh reported 113 suspected cases, the highest among all provinces, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 87 cases, Balochistan with 64, Punjab with 35, Islamabad with seven, and Gilgit-Baltistan with two.
Health experts describe diphtheria as a highly contagious bacterial infection that spreads from person to person, particularly among children who are not fully vaccinated. The disease primarily affects the throat and airways and can become life-threatening if left untreated.
Early symptoms include swollen glands in the neck, the formation of a thick gray membrane in the throat, high fever, severe sore throat, and difficulty breathing. Doctors warn that these symptoms should not be ignored, as delayed treatment can lead to serious complications or death.
Medical experts are urging parents to ensure their children receive routine vaccinations and to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of diphtheria appear. They also stress the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment to reduce the risk of severe illness and prevent further spread of the infection.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while encouraging the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended immunization schedules.
