Urgent needs remain in Pakistan, WHO says

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ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Though millions of flood-stricken Pakistanis received relief, there is an urgent need to prevent a health crisis and massive crop losses, a U.N. agency said.

Monsoon rains in July triggered massive flooding in Pakistan that put more than one-quarter of the country under water. Parts of Sindh province remain affected by the flooding that killed hundreds and left millions displaced.

The World Health Organization said there is an urgent need for $200 million to fund health projects in Pakistan.

"Increasing cases of communicable diseases, like diarrhea and malaria, fears about children being malnourished, the massive disruption to healthcare, crop systems and rising food insecurity are the main health threats facing Pakistan's flood-affected people," said Guido Sabatinelli, WHO's envoy to Pakistan, in a statement.

The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said more than 20,000 people are becoming displaced daily in Sindh province where the floodwaters continue to rise.