A toddler suffering from monkeypox has died in Karachi, raising the number of deaths from the virus in Sindh to 12 so far this year.
The child was moved a few days earlier to the Government Infectious Diseases Hospital at NIPA from a private facility. A hospital spokesperson said the child died during treatment. A total of 98 monkeypox cases have been reported across Sindh this year.
Malir child’s death follows alleged private hospital negligence
The deceased child was a resident of the Malir area of Karachi. Sources said the toddler contracted the infection due to alleged negligence at the private hospital where he was first admitted.
Following recommendations from the Sindh Healthcare Commission (SHCC), that private hospital was sealed.
Experts urge open talk on mental health and stigma
Earlier, on October 10, Pakistan and other countries observed World Mental Health Day to raise awareness of mental health conditions and the stigma attached to them. Health experts said one in four people in Pakistan experiences mental health challenges, while globally one in seven lives with a mental health condition.
Dr. Atiq of the Department of Psychiatry at Aga Khan Hospital said this year’s theme, announced by the World Health Organization, is “Real Stories, Real Voices, Real Change.” The theme focuses on listening to people who have experienced depression and psychological distress.
Mahenoor Channa of the Department of Psychiatry at Jinnah Hospital urged people not to see sadness, anxiety or emotional distress as weakness. Experts stressed that a lack of awareness and social stigma keep many people from seeking help, and that open conversation is essential.
