255 Leishmania cases reported in South Waziristan

MIRANSHAH:

A significant rise in Leishmania cases has been reported in the Azam Warsak and Shahin Panga areas of Barmal Tehsil in Lower South Waziristan, sparking alarm among local residents and health authorities, officials said on Monday.

According to locals, the disease is spreading rapidly in rural areas, with a large number of children among those affected. The situation has caused widespread fear and panic among parents, who fear the disease could spread further if urgent preventive measures are not taken.

Local elders and tribal leaders told The Express Tribune that limited medical facilities and difficulties in accessing timely treatment are worsening the crisis. Affected families face problems reaching hospitals, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. They urged the government and relevant authorities to take immediate action and provide better healthcare facilities.

District Health Officer, Dr Adnan, confirmed that 255 Leishmania cases have been reported so far during 2026. He said the health department is closely monitoring the situation and providing treatment facilities in affected areas.

Dr Adnan added that injections used for Leishmania treatment, including Glucantime, are available at the DHO office and the District Headquarters Hospital in Wana. He assured that steps are being taken to ensure timely treatment for patients and stressed the urgent need for awareness campaigns in affected areas to help people adopt preventive measures and curb the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, locals have demanded that the provincial government take immediate and effective action to control the rising number of cases. They warned that without timely intervention, the disease could spread further and become harder to contain.

Residents also called for deploying mobile medical teams in affected areas, launching spray campaigns to eliminate sandflies, and improving overall medical facilities. They stressed that immediate action is essential to protect public health and prevent further suffering.