Karachi Faces Alarming Surge in H1N1 Influenza and Respiratory Diseases—Experts Urge Precaution
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- February 18, 2025
- 10:30 am
- 262
- Trending
H1N1 Influenza Outbreak in Karachi has become a serious concern as respiratory diseases spread rapidly. The Sindh Health Department has confirmed 248 cases of respiratory illnesses as of February 13. Among them, 119 tested positive for H1N1 influenza.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Flu Cases
Hospitals across Karachi are struggling to handle the increasing number of flu patients. Public and private hospitals report a surge in admissions. Common flu symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Vaccine Shortage Worsens the Crisis
Doctors warn that the unavailability of the H1N1 influenza vaccine is making the situation worse. Many hospitals, including Jinnah Hospital, do not have the vaccine in stock. Patients are forced to buy it at high prices.
Dr. Irfan Siddiqui, from Jinnah Hospital’s emergency department, confirmed that OPD and emergency wards are flooded with flu patients. However, no special H1N1 treatment wards have been set up. High-risk patients, including those with pre-existing conditions, often require ICU care.
Experts Recommend Preventive Measures
Health experts emphasize the importance of prevention. To control the H1N1 Influenza Outbreak in Karachi, they recommend:
- Wearing masks
- Washing hands frequently
- Avoiding crowded areas
- Getting vaccinated
Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease specialist, explained that flu cases rise in winter. He said that H1N1 is the dominant flu strain in Karachi. He urged citizens to get vaccinated immediately.
Government Issues Health Advisory
The Sindh Health Department has issued a health advisory. Hospitals must implement strict monitoring and infection control. Officials have ordered medical staff to use protective kits.
Public awareness campaigns are also underway. Health authorities stress the need for early medical consultation. Experts warn that untreated flu can cause severe complications like pneumonia.
Hospitals Struggle with Rising Cases
Doctors report a continuous increase in flu cases. Some hospitals are unable to manage the patient load.
Dr. Altaf Hussain Khatri, a senior physician, shared that he sees 30 to 40 flu patients daily. He has noticed entire families falling sick due to the virus’s high transmission rate.
Dr. Faisal Mahmood, head of Infectious Diseases at Aga Khan University Hospital, confirmed that Karachi is experiencing a severe flu season. He said that at any time, 20 to 40 flu patients are admitted with severe symptoms. Some cases have led to fatalities.
Doctors Warn Against Self-Medication
Dr. Mahmood stressed that influenza is not just a common cold. He warned against self-medicating with antibiotics, as they do not work against viruses.
He advised seeking medical help if symptoms last more than five days, especially if breathing becomes difficult.
The Sindh Health Department is closely monitoring the situation. Hospitals must report all suspected and confirmed cases. Healthcare workers are urged to wear protective gear and follow strict hygiene protocols.
Karachi residents must take precautions to stay safe during this flu outbreak.
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