The National Institute of Health (NIH) has refuted reports suggesting a surge in COVID-19 cases in Pakistan, assuring that the situation is under control.
In an exclusive interview with ARY News, Dr. Mumtaz Khan, Head of the Center for Disease Control at NIH, stated that there is no truth to claims of a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases. He explained that the symptoms of COVID-19, influenza, and seasonal flu are similar, which may be causing confusion.
Dr. Khan reassured the public that there is no need for panic, as the situation is being closely monitored. He also emphasized that an increase in respiratory illnesses during the winter months is typical, and that cases of influenza and H1N1 are commonly seen at this time of year.
The NIH has stepped up surveillance nationwide to closely track the situation. Dr. Khan added that the institute has also submitted a formal response to the National Assembly regarding the status of COVID-19, influenza, and H1N1 cases.
Reports from the previous day indicated that Karachi has seen a rise in COVID-19 cases, with 25 to 30 percent of patients showing symptoms of cold and cough testing positive for the virus.
Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease expert at Dow Hospital, noted an increase in patients with cold, cough, and fever in the city. He reported that 25 to 30 percent of these patients tested positive for COVID-19, while 10 to 12 percent were diagnosed with Influenza H1N1, and 5 to 10 percent of children displayed signs of respiratory infections.
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He further explained that the overlapping symptoms of COVID-19, Influenza H1N1, and other winter-related viral infections often discourage patients from getting tested, preventing confirmation of these diseases.
At Dow Hospital, there has been a significant rise in patients presenting with cold, cough, and fever symptoms, many of whom have tested positive for COVID-19. The hospital has also reported an increase in patients experiencing breathing difficulties and other respiratory issues.
The symptoms of these viral infections often overlap, with the loss of taste and smell being a distinguishing symptom of COVID-19. The spread of these diseases is common in winter, with poor ventilation contributing to the transmission of viruses.
