Pakistan’s first Pulmonary Tuberculosis ICU has been established in Karachi. The ICU, located at the Ojha Institute of Chest Diseases, Dow University of Health Sciences, will provide free healthcare treatment to TB patients.

On this occasion, Vice-Chancellor of Dow University, Professor Muhammad Saeed Quraishy, stated that the laboratory of OICD, previously in an abysmal condition, has now been upgraded to a BSL (Bio Safety Level 3) laboratory, meeting tuberculosis treatment standards. He mentioned that the inauguration of the first TB ICU in the country is a significant advancement in treatment facilities, equipped with modern technology.

The ICU has been launched with a capacity of 4 beds, with plans for expansion. Professor Quraishy expressed hope that this initiative will contribute to the improvement of healthcare for TB patients, not only at this hospital but across the country.

Moreover, Director of OICD, Professor Iftikhar Ahmed, noted that an integrated OPD facility for tuberculosis patients has been established, allowing patients to receive treatment under one roof. He added that, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, OICD is working to improve access to TB Preventive Treatment (TPT).

The establishment of this ICU, equipped with modern facilities, is a step towards providing comprehensive care to TB patients within a single institution. It is important to note that there is no other ICU of this nature in Pakistan specifically for TB patients.

According to health experts, once TB patients are admitted to an ICU, other general patients cannot be admitted there.