K-P puts hospitals on alert amid monsoon, flood threat

PESHAWAR: The Health Department of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has put all hospitals and other government health centers in the province on high alert due to the prevailing monsoon emergency and flood threat.

In its directive to all District Health Officers (DHOs) and medical superintendents of different districts, the department has asked the concerned officers to conduct immediate stock check of important medicines and anti-snake venom in their respective hospitals and health centers.

The letter has particularly instructed to ensure sufficient availability of important medical commodities at District Headquarters (DHQ) hospitals, Tehsil Headquarters (THQ) hospitals, Rural Health Centers (RHCs) and Basic Health Units (BHUs).

The shortage of medicines and medical equipment should be promptly brought to the notice of Health Department. Advance orders have been made from districts for necessary medicines to ensure supply from Central Medical Store.

Emphasis has been laid upon ensuring anti-snake venom, ORS, IV fluid, tetanus toxoid and antibiotics for people affected by rain and flood. The ambulances and emergency services should remain on duty at all times and health centers in flood affected areas should keep themselves operational.

Health officials have also been instructed to maintain continuous coordination and monitoring with district administrations and to ensure that all necessary medicines and medical resources are in place before any emergency escalates.

According to sources, the department has similarly directed major Medical Teaching Institutions (MTIs) to remain prepared and to stay linked with the Health Department's control room for real-time data sharing.