Karachi, Pakistan – In a major health achievement, Sindh province has officially been certified as free from maternal and neonatal tetanus, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s healthcare system. The announcement was made during a debriefing session held in Karachi, which was attended by senior health officials and global experts, including a verification mission led by Dr. Nasir Yousuf from the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters.
A Testament to Collaborative Efforts
This remarkable accomplishment is the result of the relentless efforts of provincial and national health authorities, development partners, and health workers. Their combined work in improving sanitation, enhancing healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring widespread vaccination campaigns has led to the elimination of neonatal tetanus in the province.
Dr. Yousuf, who led the verification mission, confirmed that neonatal tetanus, which claimed the lives of newborns in the past, has been eradicated in Sindh. He commended the health authorities for their dedication and emphasized that this success reflects the effectiveness of vaccination and health outreach programs.
What is Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus?
Maternal and neonatal tetanus are deadly diseases caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, typically found in soil and animal excreta. In the case of neonatal tetanus, the bacteria infects newborns, often through unclean practices during childbirth, such as the use of non-sterile instruments or unsterile umbilical cord care. The disease causes severe muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and can lead to death if untreated.
Maternal tetanus affects women during childbirth, typically due to unhygienic conditions or the lack of sterile equipment during delivery. Both diseases are preventable through vaccination, and the elimination of neonatal tetanus is considered a key indicator of a health system’s progress.
The Path Forward: Strengthening Immunization Efforts
Despite this significant achievement, health experts emphasize the need for continued vigilance to ensure that maternal and neonatal tetanus remains eradicated in the region. Dr. Mohammad Imran, Project Director of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), urged the provincial authorities to intensify vaccination drives, especially in rural areas, to protect every woman and newborn from the risk of tetanus.
“We must remain proactive and maintain high vaccination coverage across the province. It is crucial that we continue our efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, particularly in remote and underserved areas,” Dr. Imran said.
This certification serves as an example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through robust healthcare strategies, collaborative efforts, and sustained commitment to improving public health. With the continued focus on immunization, Sindh is poised to maintain its tetanus-free status and contribute to Pakistan’s broader health goals.
