Health authorities in Punjab have reported a sharp rise in disease outbreaks across flood-affected areas, with over 33,000 new cases recorded in just 24 hours. According to the Punjab Health Department, the total number of patients has now surged to 755,000 since the devastating monsoon floods began.

Daily Surge in Illnesses

The latest figures show alarming trends: 5,000 respiratory infections, 4,300 fever cases, 4,000 skin allergy cases, and 1,900 diarrhoea cases were reported within a single day. In addition, several incidents of snake and dog bites have been recorded, further complicating the situation for already vulnerable communities. Officials caution that the spread of disease may accelerate if preventive measures are not strengthened immediately.

Medical Camps Established for Relief

To tackle the health emergency, the government has established 405 medical camps across the flood-hit districts. These facilities are staffed by doctors, paramedics, and volunteers who are providing emergency treatment, vaccinations, and medicines to those in need. Despite these efforts, the rising number of cases continues to overwhelm available resources, highlighting the need for more support and medical supplies.

Risks of Contaminated Water and Overcrowding

Experts warn that the contamination of drinking water and the overcrowding of temporary shelters are major factors behind the surge in diseases. Floodwaters have destroyed sanitation systems, leaving residents exposed to bacterial infections and waterborne illnesses. Children and elderly people remain particularly at risk, with health officials stressing the urgency of clean water supplies and hygiene kits to curb further outbreaks.

Warnings of Intensifying Outbreaks

Health authorities have expressed concern that the situation may worsen if immediate preventive measures are not enforced. With floodwaters still standing in several regions, the chances of cholera, dengue, and malaria outbreaks remain high. The department has urged citizens to avoid using unsafe water sources and called on relief agencies to accelerate the delivery of essential medical equipment and sanitation aid.

A Strain on Public Health Infrastructure

The crisis has placed immense pressure on Punjab’s public health infrastructure, which is already stretched thin by the scale of the disaster. Hospitals are struggling with limited capacity, while medical staff face long hours and shortages of vital supplies. Officials emphasize that sustained relief efforts and international assistance may be necessary to stabilize the worsening health emergency.