The ongoing dry and cold weather in Pakistan has intensified the spread of seasonal flu and related viruses, with health officials reporting a significant rise in cases.
According to a report by the National Institute of Health (NIH) presented to the National Assembly, five COVID-19 and 147 swine flu (Influenza A) cases were confirmed during December and January. The affected COVID-19 patients include two each from Rawalpindi and Swat, and one from Islamabad.
The NIH report stated that 1,724 patient samples were collected from 14 cities, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gilgit, Lahore, Peshawar, Karachi, Multan, and Swat. Among these:
- Seasonal Flu (Influenza B): 511 cases were confirmed, including 129 children.
- Swine Flu (Influenza A): 147 cases tested positive in the last 1.5 months.
- Metapneumovirus: A rare respiratory virus recently emerged in China, was identified in one patient.
Health experts have urged citizens to adopt preventive measures such as vaccination, mask-wearing, and maintaining hygiene to combat the rapid spread of respiratory viruses.
Meanwhile, Karachi reported new coronavirus cases on Saturday. Influenza and laryngitis are spreading rapidly in the city. At Dow Hospital, around 30% of cases involving cough and fever tested positive for COVID-19.
Professor Saeed Khan emphasized, “The coronavirus already exists in society. These cases surge during cold weather.” He advised patients to take precautionary measures if they experience symptoms.
