UNICEF reported on 16 October 2026 that it had provided 75,000 vials of medicine to the Government of Pakistan to support treatment of children and families affected by the ongoing leishmaniasis outbreak in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The agency said over 10,500 cases had been reported since January, including over 4,400 children under 16.

Leishmaniasis is transmitted through the bite of infected sand flies. UNICEF noted that children are particularly vulnerable because of their developing immune systems, and that the disease can cause skin sores that may leave permanent scars, while more severe forms can affect internal organs and be fatal if untreated. The medicines were handed over to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Health in Peshawar and were to be distributed through selected health facilities, with a three-year shelf life.

Pernille Ironside, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, said the outbreak had affected thousands of children who face pain, stigma and the risk of long-term complications if left untreated. Laeeq Ahmed, Additional Secretary of Health at the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, said UNICEF's support would strengthen the ability to provide timely treatment in affected districts.