A spokesperson for the health department said that pneumonia is spreading rapidly, and has claimed the lives of 12 children in 24 hours in Punjab. All children were aged between 6 to 12 years.

It added that during the department reported 491 new cases of the cold-borne disease, bringing the total number of cases in Pakistan’s largest province to 10,061 since its re-emergence.

The disease spreads due to severe cold weather. Flue, fever, and feeling of cold are common symptoms of pneumonia.

Pneumonia claims two more children’s lives in Lahore

Punjab announces 1-week holiday for schools amid pneumonia cases

Pneumonia cases in children increased due to increase in cold

However, the provincial government had announced vacations for nursery and elementary classes to save children from illness.