By Sudhir Ahmad Afridi
LANDI KOTAL: In the first four months of 2025, Landi Kotal, a region in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, saw a worrying surge in leishmaniasis cases, with 800 individuals, including a significant number of children, affected. The outbreak, which has raised concerns among local residents, has been met with a swift and coordinated response from the Landi Kotal District Headquarters Hospital, where the majority of the patients have received treatment.
Health officials reported that most of the patients have now recovered, following proper treatment at the hospital. The hospital has been commended for its prompt action and the effective management of the outbreak, which involved providing timely medical attention to those affected.
Leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, is a growing concern in many regions. The disease typically presents with skin ulcers, which can be severe if left untreated. The health department has stressed the importance of maintaining cleanliness in homes and advised against self-medication, which can lead to complications and further spread of the disease.
