A state of emergency has been declared in all hospitals and health facilities in Sindh with the leaves of all medical personnel and support staff cancelled, according to a notice issued by the provincial health department.

The notice, seen by Dawn.com, said that following Indian air strikes in Bahawalpur, Muridke and elsewhere, “the Health Department, Government of Sindh is placing all public health facilities across the province on high alert to ensure [an] immediate and effective emergency response”.

Along with declaring a state of emergency in health facilities, the notification ordered the following:

• All leaves of health personnel, including doctors, nurses, paramedics and support staff have been cancelled with immediate effect till further orders.
• Emergency Response Units must be kept on high alert.
• Ensure the presence of medical, nursing and paramedical staff around the clock.
• Ensure availability of emergency medicines, surgical supplies, IV fluids, oxygen and blood units.
• Hospitals must maintain close coordination with Rescue 1122, District Administration and law enforcement agencies.
• All emergency cases must be handled with care and treated properly.