Silent Impact of Floods on Child Health in Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change effects despite being a non-contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions¹. Extreme temperatures, water insecurities, droughts, landslides, and heat waves have not only left devastating impacts on economy but also compromised physical, social and mental well-being of population. During recent frequent episodes of flooding battered more than two thirds of its districts¹. Moreover, it impacts individuals of all ages, with children being particularly vulnerable due to their weaker immune systems and dependence on caregivers². Pakistan is currently grappling with its most severe flood disaster, which has submerged vast areas, notably in eastern Punjab, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Sindh and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). Their impact on child health is multifaceted, with immediate public health consequences as well as numerous enduring challenges ².

          More than 40% of Pakistan's population is under 18 years of age (approximately 112 million), child health is a major concern during such catastrophes. UNICEF reported that an estimated 3.4 million children were affected by the 2022 flood tragedy in Pakistan³. The most immediate and evident causes of flood-driven child mortality and morbidity are physical injuries from debris, collapsing structures, drowning, electrocution and snake bites. Furthermore, floods inversely impact child health by increasing the incidence of water-borne diseases such as hepatitis A and E, typhoid, cholera and diarrhea due to widespread water contamination and the breakdown of sewer systems. Stagnant water acts as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, further leads to the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue⁴. Skin problems and respiratory issues also emerge from mold growth in persistently damp environments⁵.