Surge in Seasonal and Swine Flu Cases Across Pakistan Amid Cold Weather

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is witnessing a significant rise in seasonal and swine flu cases as the dry and cold weather intensifies the spread of respiratory viruses. Health officials report a surge in cases, with the National Institute of Health (NIH) confirming 147 cases of swine flu (Influenza A) and five COVID-19 cases in December and January.

According to a recent NIH report submitted to the National Assembly, 1,724 patient samples were collected from cities across the country, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gilgit, Lahore, Peshawar, Karachi, Multan, and Swat. Of these, 511 cases were of seasonal flu (Influenza B), with 129 cases reported among children. Additionally, 147 cases of swine flu (Influenza A) were confirmed, and one patient tested positive for metapneumovirus, a rare respiratory virus recently emerging in China.

Karachi is also grappling with a surge in influenza and laryngitis cases, with 30% of patients reporting symptoms like cough and fever testing positive for COVID-19 at Dow Hospital. Professor Saeed Khan of Dow Hospital emphasized that coronavirus cases have been circulating in the community and are exacerbated by the cold weather.

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Health experts are urging citizens to take preventive measures such as vaccination, wearing masks, and maintaining hygiene to protect themselves from the rapid spread of these respiratory infections.