Media in Pakistan Reporting Surge in COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations While Also Announcing the First Case of HMPV
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jan 19, 2025 3 hours, 2 minutes ago
Medical News: As winter grips Pakistan, a noticeable surge in COVID-19 cases has emerged, particularly in Karachi. Local media outlets have reported that 25 to 30 percent of patients presenting with cold and cough symptoms are testing positive for COVID-19. Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, has observed an increase in cases involving common symptoms such as cold, cough, and fever. He revealed that 25 to 30 percent of these individuals have been confirmed as COVID-19 positive through testing.
Media in Pakistan Reporting Surge in COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations While Also Announcing the First Case of HMPV
This
Medical News report delves deeper into the growing health concerns, as Professor Khan highlighted additional troubling statistics. He noted that 10 to 12 percent of patients are being diagnosed with Influenza H1N1, while 5 to 10 percent of children exhibit signs of respiratory infections. These overlapping symptoms often lead to confusion, with many individuals refraining from testing, thereby delaying an accurate diagnosis.
At Dow Hospital, numerous patients with fever, cold, and cough have tested positive for COVID-19, and the number of cases involving respiratory difficulties is on the rise. Experts emphasize that loss of taste and smell remains a distinguishing symptom of COVID-19, although its overlap with other viral infections complicates detection. Health officials warn that poor ventilation in closed spaces during winter exacerbates the spread of such infections.
Precautions and Preventive Measures
In light of the increasing cases, health authorities are urging the public to adopt preventive measures to curb the spread of infections. Recommendations include wearing masks, maintaining proper hygiene, and keeping warm. Vaccination against influenza is also being strongly advised to minimize the risk of severe viral infections. Public awareness campaigns aim to ensure that citizens remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their health during this critical period.
HMPV: A New Viral Threat Emerges in Pakistan
Adding to the health crisis, Pakistan has reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus recently identified in China.
According to 24NewsHD TV, data submitted to the National Assembly indicates the detection of HMPV alongside rising cases of COVID-19 and Influenza H1N1.
HMPV poses significant health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. The virus shares symptoms with other respiratory illnesses, including fever, cough, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing. While its presence in Pakistan is still limited, experts stress the importance of early detection and preventive measures to prevent its spread.
Karachi: A City Battling Multiple Health Challenges
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, faces a confluence of health challenges as COVID-19, Influe
nza H1N1, and respiratory infections surge. Reports indicate that 30 percent of flu and cough patients in the city have tested positive for COVID-19. This has placed significant strain on healthcare facilities, with Dow Hospital at the forefront of treating patients.
Dr. Saeed Khan of Dow University of Health Sciences underscored the importance of advanced PCR testing for accurate COVID-19 diagnosis. He also reiterated the need for citizens to wear masks and practice social distancing to minimize transmission.
Concluding Thoughts
The resurgence of COVID-19, coupled with the emergence of HMPV, highlights the urgent need for public awareness and preventive action in Pakistan. Health experts warn that the overlap of symptoms between COVID-19, Influenza H1N1, and other respiratory infections can lead to delayed diagnoses and increased transmission. Vaccination, good hygiene practices, and public compliance with safety measures remain pivotal in controlling the spread of these diseases. The arrival of HMPV underscores the importance of global and national vigilance against emerging viral threats.
Media References:
https://propakistani.pk/2025/01/19/coronavirus-makes-comeback-in-pakistan/
https://pakobserver.net/city-faces-new-wave-of-covid-19/
https://24newshd.tv/19-Jan-2025/meta-pneumovirus-lands-in-pakistan-first-case-reported
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