Tackling the growing health challenges

Several critical issues surround healthcare and disease management in Pakistan, particularly during epidemics. There are clear systemic challenges involving both the public and government, which contribute to the recurrent problems of medication shortages, hygiene negligence, and ineffective epidemic control measures. Medication shortages and irregular availability are the key points. The unpredictability of the medication supply is damaging. As seen in the case of chloroquine during the COVID-19 pandemic and paracetamol during the dengue outbreak in 2022, medication supply often fails to meet demand during epidemics. The unavailability of these medications for either their intended use (malaria treatment) or an off-label application (prophylaxis for COVID-19) reveals the country’s fragile healthcare infrastructure. The scarcity of blood platelets in 2024 during a dengue outbreak highlights a similar issue in the supply of medical resources. The irrational use of medications, such as the overuse of chloroquine during COVID-19, or various remedies for chikungunya pain, often stems from a lack of medical consultation. This practice can lead to unsafe medication use, contributing to further health complications, which not only harms individuals but also burdens the healthcare system. Environmental and public health challenges, neglected hygiene and environmental issues are numerous. The accumulation of garbage, stagnant water, and improper sewage management throughout the year provides a breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. The failure to maintain cleanliness, especially after major events like Eid-ul-Azha, shows a systemic neglect of preventive measures. These issues, combined with ad-hoc mosquito control measures, demonstrate the need for consistent and year-round public health strategies. Late response to epidemics is harmful. Government responses, such as mosquito sprays and awareness campaigns, tend to be reactive rather than proactive. Waiting for diseases to spread before taking action prevents effective prevention and highlights the need for continuous and proactive public health measures. The government must prioritize long-term planning to address the root causes of epidemics, including better waste management, regular mosquito control measures, and the establishment of efficient healthcare supply chains. Their role in raising awareness and executing preventive measures should be constant, rather than limited to times of outbreak. On the other hand, the public needs to take personal responsibility for their health. This includes practicing good hygiene, keeping their surroundings clean, and avoiding the misuse of medications. Rather than relying on unverified treatments or recommendations from non-professionals, individuals should seek proper medical advice to ensure safe and effective treatment. A proactive healthcare strategy is necessary. Integrate preventive measures into national healthcare strategy. There is an urgent need for the government to make proactive health measures a core part of national healthcare strategies. This includes ensuring consistent cleanliness, regular insecticide spraying, timely medical supplies, and public health education campaigns. Proactive, not just reactive, measures should be the focus. Continuous public health education about the risks of diseases, the importance of hygiene, and the dangers of self-medication is essential. Schools, media, and community organizations should disseminate accurate health information and encourage safer practices. Collaboration between the government and citizens is essential. Both the government and the people must collaborate more effectively to maintain public health. While government actions are necessary for large-scale interventions, individuals can play a significant role by practicing preventive measures and advocating for better healthcare conditions. Addressing these healthcare challenges requires systemic change. Both the government and the public need to take responsibility in a concerted and ongoing manner. The government must implement proactive health strategies, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure the regular availability of essential medications. The public must take ownership of their health, practice preventive measures, and seek professional medical advice rather than relying on anecdotal remedies. Only through these joint efforts can Pakistan tackle the growing health challenges posed by epidemics.