Diphtheria vaccine crisis claims over 100 children's lives in Karachi

Despite being a preventable disease, Diphtheria has claimed the lives of over 100 children in Karachi due to a shortage of the Diphtheria Anti-Toxin (DAT) vaccine.

Diphtheria is caused by a bacterium that affects the upper respiratory tract and sometimes the skin. It produces a toxin that can damage the heart and nerves, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

All reported cases of diphtheria were registred at the Sindh Infectious Diseases Hospital (SIDH), as stated by provincial health department officials.

Last year, over 140 cases were reported, with 52 resulting in fatalities and 88 successfully treated. Currently, 12 new cases are being treated at SIDH.

Experts believe that the disease can be treated with the vaccine, which is currently unavailable in the country. The cost of the vaccine is Rs250,000 per child, making it unaffordable for many.

According to experts, the only cure for diphtheria is complete vaccination and treatment with antitoxin.

Pakistani children were vaccinated with a combination of vaccines protecting against five diseases, including diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenza type b (DTP-Hip).

Health experts emphasise that diphtheria primarily affects the throat and upper respiratory tract but can lead to serious complications.

The fact that diphtheria, a disease eradicated in most countries, persists in Pakistan is concerning for the country and its health authorities.