August 03, 2008	Sunday	Rajab 30, 1429

KARACHI, Aug 2: Expressing its concern over the surge in cases of malaria and gastroenteritis in the city, the Pakistan Medical Association, Karachi, has stressed the need for effective measures to check the situation.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the general secretary of the PMA, Dr Samreena Hashmi, warned that in the absence of effective measures the two diseases might assume epidemic proportions.

She requested the city nazim to declare a state of emergency in the health department and ensure that fumigation was carried out throughout the city and in its outskirts.

Dr Hashmi also called for effective removal and disposal of garbage from the city on a daily basis.

The PMA general secretary also drew the nazim’s attention towards the fact that sewage lines needed to be properly covered as they otherwise would turn into breeding grounds for mosquitoes and flies.

The health expert also urged the masses to consume only boiled water and to increase their water intake during the current season.

She said that in case of diarrhoea and vomiting, people must use ORS and if the situation remained unstable even after the passage of 24 hours, instead of resorting to self medication, they must consult a qualified doctor.

Dr Hashmi also urged people to always wash their hands before eating and after using toilet and also to observe cleanliness.—APP