Emergency clinic opens in flood-hit Pakistan
World Vision has opened an emergency health clinic in Lower Dir, an area of Pakistan severely affected by this week’s flooding.
The clinic, which opened on Wednesday, has already received an influx of patients, many of whom have been left homeless by the disaster.
The aid agency is worried that waterborne diseases such as diarrhoea and cholera are spreading among the homeless. Increasing numbers of children are already reported to be suffering from skin diseases and eye infections.
Situation 'desperate'
World Vision’s Dr Sheraz Iqbal described the situation at the clinic as “desperate”.
“People are showing up at the clinic parched and hungry. They’ve walked through rain and mud with clothing caked to their bodies, carrying their children for hours.
“They’re suffering from ailments such as diarrhoea and acute respiratory infections, which can become life-threatening unless treated.”
Support for women
World Vision will support six additional health clinics in Lower Dir, where it also plans to establish “women-friendly spaces” that will provide emotional and educational support to women in conflict-affected areas.
Women will be encouraged to visit and discuss their maternal, child health and psychological problems with their peers through the facilitation of a trained health worker.
In addition to providing basic healthcare through the clinics, World Vision is continuing to reach families affected by Pakistan’s floods with essential supplies including food and water.
The organisation is increasing aid distributions in the coming days, delivering shelter and other basic, essential items including cooking utensils and hygiene kits.
World Vision Ireland is appealing to the Irish public to donate money to the relief effort in Pakistan.