KARACHI: Taking notice of rising cases of eyesight damage among the patients administered Avastin injection, caretaker federal health minister Dr Nadeem Jan has slapped a countrywide ban on the sale of these injections.
This decision was taken following a meeting between Dr Nadeem Jan and Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Health Care Dr Jamal Nasir.
Dr Jan explained that the move to recall the Avastin injection, which had caused adverse reactions, was taken promptly upon receiving information from an affected patient.
The minister revealed that legal action has been initiated against two suppliers of the injection in question.
To comprehensively investigate the matter, a five-member committee comprising senior doctors and experts has been constituted. The committee has been tasked with examining all aspects of the situation and submit a report within three days.
Dr Nadeem Jan pledged to closely coordinating with the Punjab government to ensure a thorough investigation, holding those responsible accountable. The affected patients will receive proper care and all necessary treatment facilities.
Additionally, Dr Nadeem Jan discussed the dengue situation with the Punjab health minister, saying provincial health authorities are effectively managing the situation.
He noted that this year a total of 3,500 dengue cases have been reported across the entire Punjab province, contrasting with 10,000 cases during the same period last year.
Fortunately, there have been no fatalities reported thus far in Punjab. The declining trend in dengue cases after October 15 is promising, Dr Jan said, stressing the need to continue these efforts for another three to four weeks with unwavering determination.
Regarding the availability of medicines, the minister assured that there is currently no shortage of essential medicines in the province, with ample stocks on hand. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to bringing substantial improvements to the healthcare sector.
