Sindh steps up response after skin disease outbreak in Khairpur

KARACHI: The Sindh Health Department has intensified its response after a recent outbreak of a skin disease in the province, officials said on Tuesday.

A high-level meeting was held under the chairmanship of the director general of the Provincial Health Department to assess the situation and decide immediate steps to limit the spread of the disease. The meeting was attended by the in-charge of the PDSRU unit, the director of the Public Health Reference Lab and other relevant officials.

During the meeting, officials reviewed the latest situation and discussed urgent measures aimed at containing the outbreak. The provincial health minister directed authorities to tighten surveillance across Sindh and strengthen preventive arrangements in all districts.

According to the health secretary, seven cases have been reported in Khairpur, including five confirmed deaths, prompting serious concern within the health authorities. Officials also said the private health facility where the outbreak first surfaced has been sealed immediately as a precaution.

The department has also started awareness campaigns in the affected areas to inform residents about preventive practices and safety measures. Officials said these efforts are intended to help communities reduce the risk of further transmission.

The Sindh Health Department has placed nearly 2,500 health facilities on alert and activated the provincial surveillance system as part of the wider response.

Emergency measures expanded across the province

Officials said around 100 infectious disease wards are being established in major hospitals, while emergency information desks will also be set up to provide timely updates and guidance.

The health minister has further instructed every district hospital to immediately establish an infectious disease ward so that suspected patients can receive medical care without delay.

The measures were announced as the provincial authorities moved to strengthen monitoring and treatment capacity following the reported cases in Khairpur. Health officials said the steps were aimed at containing the outbreak and preventing further loss of life in the province.

The meeting formed part of a broader effort by the department to coordinate surveillance, treatment preparedness and public awareness in response to the outbreak.