KARACHI: Minister for Health and Population Welfare, Sindh, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho met with the representatives of the Aga Khan University to discuss the ongoing relief efforts for all those affected by the floods in Sindh.

The meeting was attended by Parliamentary Secretary of Health, Qasim Siraj Soomro, Dean of AKU, Dr. Adil H. Haider, Director at Center of Excellence in Women and Child Health at AKU, Zahid Memon and others. Minister for Health, Dr. Azra Pechuho and Parliamentary Secretary Health, Mr. Qasim Soomro who have visited majority of the sites of flood provided insight to the AKU representatives and briefed them on the needs of the hour.

Dr. Haider said that there were currently 3 mobile health units in the flood affected areas through AKU and that the internal faculty, alumni and university at large was actively fundraising for flood relief. The Sindh Health Department has had 4210 fixed and 2137 mobile medical and health camps around the province since July so through the data collected by their HR, it will be useful in informing AKUs plan of action as well.

Dr. Azra Pechuho said that due the water being contaminated, cases of skin infections are increasing and that dermatologists are needed in flood affected areas. She further added that plans of action must be modified to accommodate populations that will be migrating to drier regions and deserts and their health needs must be catered to regardless of their location.

Soomro said that the displaced population is in huge numbers and the rehabilitation will be a long term process. Dr. Haider said that their health care workers and volunteers are looking to extend their support in that regard and will be committing to this work over the upcoming months.